MyGourmetConnection

Lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla) is a deciduous perennial herb native to South America and cultivated in Europe after Spanish explorers brought it back in the 1600s.

Lemon verbena grows well in full sun and moist soil and is very sensitive to the cold - as such, it normally blooms during the summer months. As its name indicates, verbena adds a lovely lemony flavor, without any bitterness, to a wide variety of dishes.

Verbena's fresh leaves contain potent essential oils, so its citrus flavor holds up well in fish and poultry dishes, as well as desserts like sorbets and beverages such as herbal tea.