It’s not necessary to grow a lemon tree to enjoy fresh lemon fragrance or flavor.

“The narrow, pointy leaves of the herb lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla) have a distinct lemon scent and flavor that’s as good as a lemon,” says Norm Yoder, co-owner of Friday House Gardens in Orange.

Lemon verbena is a popular herb, agrees Vincent Hakes, owner of Huntington Garden Center in Huntington Beach. “The plant makes a nice 3- to 6-foot shrub that releases a wonderful lemon scent when you brush up against it. It’s also popular for medicinal purposes,” he says.

Uses of lemon verbena include:

• Tea that soothes stomach ailments
• Main ingredient in Vervein tea, popular in France
• Flavoring fruit desserts, ice cream, and poultry dishes
• Adding fragrance to potpourri

Growing Lemon Verbena

A native of South America, lemon verbena thrives in Southern California’s climate, whether planted in the ground or in containers.

Now is a great time to plant one. To grow it successfully, follow these tips:

• Understand its growth cycle: Lemon verbena is deciduous and will lose leaves in cooler months but regrows in spring.
• Planting: Choose full sun or bright filtered light. In the ground, it can grow 3 to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide if not pruned.
• Drainage: Prefers good drainage and alkaline soil. For heavy clay soil, amend with 30%-50% organic matter with humic acid.
• Containers: Use high-quality, well-draining potting mix rich in perlite or pumice.
• Watering: Needs regular watering when young. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but responds well to consistent moisture.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize once or twice a year with an organic all-purpose plant food to promote lush growth.
• Pruning: Prune regularly to prevent legginess and increase leaf production. Remove flowers to encourage more foliage. Cut the whole plant back in fall after leaf drop to maintain compact shape.

Where to Find Lemon Verbena

• Friday House Gardens: (714) 953-1421
• Huntington Garden Center: (714) 963-6522