Lemon verbena
Aloysia citrodora
Also known asAloysia · Hierba luisa · Verveine citronnelle · Cedrón
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 8–11 (winter low around -12°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.4 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A rewarding container herb for greenhouse or indoor growing. Large container (15 L) because the plant becomes a woody shrub. Well-drained media (perlite, expanded clay). EC 1.0-2.0 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 15–30°C (frost-sensitive; leaves drop below 5°C, but the woody stems survive brief frost to about -5°C and releaf in spring). Full sun (DLI 16-25 mol/m2/day). In cold climates, bring the container indoors for winter; the plant goes dormant, drops its leaves, and looks dead, but resprouts from the woody stems in spring if kept frost-free. Harvest leaves throughout the growing season by pinching stem tips or stripping individual leaves. For tea: steep 5-8 fresh leaves in hot water, or dry the leaves at 35–40°C for storage. The dried leaves retain the lemon scent for 6-12 months in sealed jars. Propagation by semi-hardwood stem cuttings (taken in late summer). A single well-maintained plant provides enough leaves for a household's tea consumption year-round.