How to grow Lemon Verbena in Australia
A tender deciduous shrub for full sun in light, well-drained soil. Water moderately through the growing season but keep it on the drier side, as it dislikes wet roots.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 4 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 100 cm
- Time to harvest: 90 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 8
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | September to April | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | September to April | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | September to April | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | October to December | Frost-tender perennial; sow Oct to Nov. Mulch heavily or lift rhizomes for winter. Marginal. |
| Adelaide & SA | September to November | Plant Sep to Nov as growth starts. The shrub drops its leaves in winter; cut it back in early spring and water through summer. |
| Perth & WA | September to November | Plant Sep to Nov as growth starts. The shrub drops its leaves in winter; cut it back in early spring and water through summer. |
| Tasmania | October and November | Plant Oct to Nov in a sheltered spot. Cut back and mulch hard before winter - hard frost can kill it. |
| Canberra & ACT | September to November | Frost tender top growth but root hardy with mulch. Plant spring so it establishes before winter; cut back in spring. |
| North Queensland | September to April | Year-round Sep to Apr main window. Lemon verbena (perennial) tolerates tropical heat and humidity. |
| Darwin & Top End | September to April | Year-round Sep to Apr main window. Lemon verbena (perennial) tolerates tropical heat and humidity. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Harvest leaves once the plant is established and growing strongly. Snip sprigs from the tips, and cutting back encourages bushier regrowth.
Storage
Fridge loosely wrapped for 3 to 4 days. Dry or freeze for months.