Lippia citriodora

Lippia citriodora is a popular and beneficial fragrant herb which is native to Europe and Asia. Plants have delicate, lance-shaped leaves, which are strongly scented with lemon, from April to November each year and stems can reach as high as 2.5m if kept unchecked. Flowers are borne in open panicles of pinkish white from May to September and provide a beneficial source of nectar to pollinators. Lippia citriodora is frequently used as a tisane (or tea) to treat indigestion, colic and other digestive disorders. It has also been known as a curative for joint pain, insomnia, skin conditions and chills to name but a few. Whilst we cannot vouch for its medicinal properties it makes a lemony scented tea which is refreshing and re-invigorating. Also great for cutting, groundcover and growing in containers. Lippia citriodora is a half-hardy, herbaceous perennial which prefers a site with well-drained soil in full sun. Harvest leaves by cutting back to a just above a pair of leaves and remember to cut back in autumn to keep plants under control.