Lemon verbena, known scientifically as Aloysia citrodora, is a highly aromatic herb prized for its intense, clear lemon fragrance. This deciduous shrub, native to South America, offers a versatile lemon scent and flavor profile without the sourness of actual citrus fruit. Due to its popularity for both culinary and aromatic applications, people seek to acquire this herb in various forms, including fresh leaves, dried material, and live plants. This guide details the primary methods and locations for obtaining lemon verbena.
What Lemon Verbena Is Used For
Lemon verbena provides a unique floral, citrusy taste used in both sweet and savory dishes. The leaves flavor chicken, fish, salad dressings, and marinades. The herb is particularly well-suited for desserts, where it is infused into creams, custards, sugars, and syrups for use in ice cream, sorbet, and baked goods.
The leaves are also commonly steeped in hot water to create a refreshing herbal tea. This infusion is traditionally consumed to support digestive health and provide a calming effect. Beyond consumption, the herb’s strong scent retention makes it a popular ingredient in potpourri, sachets, and perfumes. Essential oil is frequently used in aromatherapy and cosmetics.
Retail Sources for Immediate Consumption
It is available in both fresh and dried forms. Fresh leaves, which offer the most potent flavor, are often found at local farmers’ markets during the warmer growing seasons from late spring to early fall. High-end grocery stores and specialty produce shops may also carry the fresh herb in their refrigerated sections, though stocking may not be consistent.
When fresh lemon verbena is unavailable, dried leaves make an excellent substitute and are easier to store. Online specialty retailers focused on herbs and spices, as well as dedicated tea shops, are reliable sources for high-quality dried lemon verbena. When purchasing dried leaves, look for material that retains a vibrant green color and a strong, recognizable lemon scent, as this indicates quality. Some organic farms also sell their dried leaves directly to consumers online.
Where to Purchase Live Plants
Acquiring a live plant is the best option for establishing a renewable supply of fresh leaves. Lemon verbena plants are commonly available at local nurseries and large garden centers. These locations typically stock the plants during the spring and early summer when planting is most suitable.
Since it is a tender perennial that cannot survive freezing temperatures, it is usually grown as an annual or in containers moved indoors during winter. For a wider selection, specialty online plant vendors and mail-order nurseries ship live lemon verbena plants directly to the home. These plants arrive ready to be transplanted into a larger container or a sunny garden spot.