Herbs

Aloysia citrodora

Lemon verbena

Lemon verbena leaf detail, not the whole shrub.

A woody herb with slender green leaves and a pronounced lemon scent. Especially useful in containers placed near paths or doorways. Provide sun and drainage; reduce watering during winter rest.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Mature size: Height: 2–4 ft. in containers; larger in warm climates · Spread: 2–4 ft. in containers
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 8–10
Bloom: White to pale lilac; midsummer to early fall

Sizes & prices

4.5''$11.99
6"$16.99
8"$24.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Moisture: Keep soil moist but well drained.
Frost: Bring indoors before frost.

Culinary uses

Use: Leaves flavor fruit, tea, drinks and marinades.
Flavor: Lemon aroma fades with cooking; dried leaves retain fragrance.
Harvest: Pick before flowering.

Seasonal interest

Winter: May lose leaves while resting indoors.

Growing & care

Where winters are cold, bring containers indoors before frost and reduce watering during dormancy. Leaf drop indoors is normal. Prune in early spring for bushier growth.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Wisconsin Extension

Botanical name: Kew Science.

Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 US

Image notes: Lemon verbena leaf detail, not the whole shrub. species photo; uncropped.

Reviewed September 15, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.