by Hirts: Herbs
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Lemon Verbena (Aloysia triphylla). Lemon Verbena is a shrub that grows to a height of 2-4 feet in most of the US. In very hot climates it grows much taller. It has a woody trunk and branches with tender stems holding long pointed leaves. Small, pale mauve flowers are produced from summer to autumn. Leaves have a strong lemon fragrance and flavor.
Cultivation:
Propagate from cuttings taken in spring or summer. Protect from frost by planting in a sheltered area. If you have a sunny location in your home, bringing it indoors for winter. It makes an excellent house plant! Plant in a sunny area. Prefers a neutral pH and good drainage. Prune hard in autumn.
Harvesting:
Cut leaves as needed and save all prunings for drying.
Culinary Uses:
Sprinkle over salads or vegetables for a lemony flavor. Use to flavor stuffings for meat.Stir into herb butter or cottage cheese. Makes a refreshing tea in combination with mint or alone. Good served iced. Use liberally when on a low salt diet. Try combining with dried celery and lovage leaves.
Other Uses:
Put leaves in the vacuum cleaner to freshen the house. An infusion will make a nice skin freshener an toner. Flowers can be used in arrangements. The leaves lend a pleasant sent to bed linens. Great for potpourri.
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