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Conservatory GreenhouseShrubsHerbs - CulinarySynonym

Lippia triphylla

lemon verbena

A deciduous sub-shrub to 2.5m in height, with narrowly lance-shaped, strongly lemon-scented leaves and open panicles of tiny white or pale lilac flowers

Other common names
cidron
herb Louisa
see morelemon plant
lemon tree
lemon-scented verbena
limonetto
sweet-scented verbena
verbena oil plant
Synonyms
Aloysia triphylla
Aloysia citriodora
see moreLippia citriodora
Lippia triphylla
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Purple White Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Verbenaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Aloysia can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs with simple, paired or whorled, very aromatic leaves and small flowers in spike-like inflorescences

Name status

Correct

Plant range
South America

How to grow

Cultivation

Easy to grow in well-drained soil in full sun. May need winter protection in northern Britain. Mulch in autumn to protect the roots. Under glass grow in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Pruning group 6 or pruning group 13 if wall-trained

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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