Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Lemon verbena is a fragrant deciduous shrub in the verbena family (Verbenaceae), celebrated for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Native to Argentina, Chile, Peru, and other parts of South America, it was introduced to Europe in the 17th century, where it quickly became a favorite in gardens, kitchens, and apothecaries. Today, lemon verbena is cultivated worldwide for its refreshing aroma, culinary versatility, and long history of traditional herbal use.

The plant produces long, narrow, lance-shaped leaves that release a bright lemon fragrance when gently crushed. The leaves are harvested and dried for teas, culinary blends, and herbal preparations. Traditionally, lemon verbena has been prepared as a soothing tea, tincture, or infused into syrups and desserts. It remains a cherished botanical in Western herbalism and is widely appreciated for its refreshing flavor, aromatic qualities, and centuries of traditional use.