Aloysia / Lippia citriodora LEMON VERBENA (plant)

Lemon verbena, also known in Latin names Aloysia or Lippia citriodora, is a perennial, woody herbaceous plant of the Verbenaceae family. It is native to the Andes of South America and reaches an average height of 1.50 meters.

The leaves of the lemon verbena plant are deciduous, opposite, lanceolate, and have slightly serrated edges. They generally measure between 5 and 10 cm in length. The foliage is a brilliant green with a smooth surface. The leaves release an intense lemony fragrance when crushed, making it a prized plant for its pleasant aroma.

The flowers of Lippia citriodora are small, measuring between 1 and 2 cm in length, tubular, and grouped in terminal panicles. They can appear in abundance at the end of summer. They are usually lilac or white, adding a decorative touch to the plant.

Lemon verbena seeds are small, brown, and produced after the flowers are pollinated. They should be sown on top of the soil, watered, and placed in a warm greenhouse to germinate.

- Uses:

This aromatic plant is cultivated for its highly fragrant leaves with a lemon flavor. Its leaves are used to flavor various culinary preparations and to prepare infusions and liqueurs. It has a pleasant taste and a fresh scent.

It is a variety widely sold in pharmacies and herbalist shops. Its benefits contribute to the body's well-being.
WARNING: Do not consume without medical advice.

An essential oil is extracted from it and used in aromatherapy. Its pleasant fragrance is valued in the composition of cosmetic products and perfumery. It is also an excellent repellent plant against mosquitoes.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Transplant the plant just above the collar into a 5-liter pot of horticultural potting soil. Ensure good drainage at the bottom with clay pebbles, then pack the soil lightly.
• It is also possible to plant directly in the ground in regions with mild winters.
• Water copiously at the base of the plant immediately after planting.
• Place the plant in a shaded area for 15 days to acclimate it to its new environment.

- Soil and Substrate:

This aromatic herb needs well-aerated and well-drained soil. It is a robust plant that adapts to all types of soil, though it does not appreciate acidic earth.

- Watering and Humidity:

It is recommended to water twice a week in summer. In winter, the plant enters vegetative rest, so regular watering is not necessary.

- Light and Exposure:

It adapts to all types of light but prefers direct sunlight. It is essential to acclimate the plant when moving it from one exposure to another. For artificial lighting, HPS bulbs or MH lamps are preferred.

- Temperatures and Hardiness:

Lippia citriodora grows very well in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Below 10°C, the plant stops growing. Its hardiness is good, easily resisting temperatures down to -7°C.

- Propagation:

It can be multiplied in several ways: either by sowing its seeds or by taking semi-hardwood cuttings about 10 cm long in late spring or early summer. These cuttings should be placed in a light substrate and kept moist; they will develop roots within a few weeks.

- Diseases and Pests:

This fragrant plant is generally disease-resistant, but it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or root rot caused by soil that is too wet or poorly drained. Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.

- Maintenance:

Regular pruning helps encourage compact growth and controls the size of the plant.