| Common Name | Lemon Verbena |
| Genus | Aloysia |
| Species | Aloysia citrodora |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Life Cycle | Tender perennial in USDA Zones 8-11; grown as an annual in colder regions. |
| Tray Size | 50 (half tray) |
| Plug Care | Plant plugs promptly in well-draining soil. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Harden off plants for a few days after arrival before transplanting outdoors to prevent transplant shock or sunscald. |
| Netting / Staking | Not required. Lemon Verbena has a shrubby growth habit but may benefit from staking in high wind areas to prevent lodging. |
| Temperature Range | Thrives in temperatures of 70-85°F. Sensitive to frost and must be protected or brought indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F. It will grow into a full-on shrub in warm zones, and will be killed down the ground but can regrow from the base in mid-zones that have a fairly mild winter. |
| Spacing | Space plants 18-24 inches apart in northern zones where it is to be grown as an annual to allow for their bushy growth habit and good airflow. In southern zones where it will perennialize, space 36 inches apart. |
| Soil Preference | Prefers rich, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Avoid heavy soils that retain excessive moisture. |
| Day Length | Day-neutral; grows best in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. |
| Pinching | Pinch growing tips regularly on young plants to encourage branching and a fuller plant. Remove flowers as they appear (or use as cut material) to help focus energy towards foliage production. |
| When to Plant | Plant outdoors in spring after the danger of frost has passed, especially in northern zones. In Zones 8-11, it can be planted throughout the summer (irrigate well!) or in the fall for year-round growth. |
| Harvesting | Harvest stems when plants are well-established, typically when they reach18-24 inches in length. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage regrowth. Harvest early in the morning when plants are at peak hydration. |
| Post Harvest Care | Place stems in water immediately after cutting. Lemon Verbena has a vase life of 5-7 days which might be extended by using a floral conditioner. Use clean water and change it frequently to extend freshness - some experimentation might be required to determine how to achieve the best vase life. |
| Diseases / Insects | Lemon Verbena is generally low-maintenance but may be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risks. |
| Bailey's Notes | Lemon Verbena’s bright, citrus-scented foliage is most often used for culinary purposes but it has potential to be a standout in mixed bouquets, adding a refreshing fragrance and delicate texture. |
| Resources |
University of Illinois Extension: Lemon Verbena North Carolina State Extension: Aloysia citrodora Growing Tips |