Aloysia triphylla (syn.Lippia citriodora, Verbena citriodora, V.triphylla)
History |
| One of my favourite herbs, and appropriately discovered it has the common name of herb Louisa.
Considered by many to be the finest of the lemon scented plants. Native to parts of South America, this is a frost tender perennial shrub or small tree. The plant is deciduous. It frosty areas such as Hawke’s Bay grow in a sheltered spot and particularly protect new spring growth from frost. |
Growing |
| Lemon Verbena is lovely planted close to paths where the scent is released as you brush past. Prefers free draining soils in full sun. New growth will sprout from near the base in spring…..this need protecting from frost. To propagate take cuttings of young shoots in spring or early summer. |
Uses |
| Leaves make a beautiful tea and can be harvested through the summer and dried. Historically Lemon Verbena has been used to treat stomach ailments, fever and coughs. Research has shown it to be effective against the yeast infection Candida albicans. The leaves are also popular in potpourri, and as a hair rinse. Flowers are very ornamental. |
