Lake Austin Spa Resort
Many herbs have a hint of lemon flavor, but this herb really packs a lemony punch. Native to Chile, it is a deciduous shrub that grows ten to fifteen feet tall there. In most of the deep South it is semi-hardy and freezes to the ground in winter. If mulched heavily and not over-watered, it usually returns in Spring, but sometimes recovers slowly from winter. Give them until late spring to see if they are going to recover. Northern gardeners may want to grow it in a large pot and take it indoors for the winter.

The plant can sometime be a bit untidy in the garden as it has a tendency to sprawl and can get woody, but frequent pruning will keep it more tidy in appearance.

The pale green leaves contrast nicely with purple basils and richly colored flowers in the garden.

Widely used in Europe for perfumes in the 18th century, it is also makes a soothing and relaxing bedtime tea. It has been used to treat congestion and to soothe indigestion. The leaves contain vitamin C and are said to boost the immune system.

Harvest the leaves when they are dry and before the plant blooms to get them at the peak of their flavor. They may be used fresh for teas and for cooking or dried and stored for winter use. Keep the dried leaves in a tightly closed glass jar and store away from direct sunlight.

The fresh leaves are delicious when added to pineapple juice, orange juice or white wine and then refrigerated overnight. Strain, and then serve with a fresh sprig to garnish your glass. Any tea will taste better with a few sprigs added while brewing. A favorite combination for an exceptional tasting lemon tea is lemon verbena, lemon balm and lemon grass. Sweeten with honey and add slices of fresh lemon for extra zing.

The leaves add a lovely scent to potpourris, sachets and sleep pillows. They are also great added to a bath. Cut sprigs and add them to indoor flower arrangements to enjoy their fragrance indoors.

Lemon verbena is also a favorite for use in herbal vinegars, cakes, muffins and puddings. Mix the fresh leaves with sugar in the food processor and add to a favorite cake or cookie recipe. Steep fresh leaves in milk when making ice cream for a delightful lemon flavor.

When maintained organically and given frequent foliar feedings, pests will seldom be a problem. Some gardeners have experienced problems with white flies and spider mites, but these are easily controlled with a garlic spray or a mild soap spray.