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Lemon Verbena: What It Is and How to Use It

Lemon Verbena: What It Is and How to Use It

Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a South American shrub with intensely lemon-scented leaves — many herbalists consider it the truest, most concentrated lemon flavor of any herb. Find it at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA 94805, where tea lovers seek it out for its remarkably clean citrus character.

Available in Bulk

We carry lemon verbena in our bulk herb section so you can grab the exact amount you want, from a spoonful to a full bag. It's a special-occasion herb for many people, so buying just enough for a few pots of tea makes sense — and our staff can help you find it.

What We Carry

  • Dried lemon verbena leaf, cut and sifted — sold by weight, for teas and culinary use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does lemon verbena taste like?

Pure, intense lemon — stronger and cleaner than lemon balm, without any mintiness. The flavor is so concentrated that a small amount perfumes a whole pot of tea, and it holds up beautifully both hot and iced.

How do I brew lemon verbena tea?

Steep a teaspoon or two of dried leaf per cup of hot water for about 5 minutes, then strain. It's excellent on its own, and it also lifts blends with green tea, mint, or chamomile. For iced tea, brew it double-strength and pour over ice.

Can I cook with lemon verbena?

Absolutely — it's a classic in desserts. Steep the leaves in warm cream for panna cotta or ice cream, add them to fruit salads and sorbets, or tuck a few into the cavity of a roast chicken for a citrus-herb perfume. Remove the leaves before serving, as you would bay leaves.

How is it different from lemongrass or lemon balm?

All three are lemony, but distinct: lemon verbena is the most intensely lemon and the least "green" tasting; lemongrass adds a gingery warmth; lemon balm is the mildest and most mellow. If a recipe wants bold lemon-herb flavor, verbena is the pick.

Did you know? Lemon verbena is native to South America and was brought to Europe in the 1700s, where it quickly became a prized garden and tea herb (documented in botanical histories including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew).

Visit William's Natural Foods at 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA — open Monday through Friday 9 AM to 7 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. Our staff can help you find lemon verbena in the bulk section and suggest blends.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional about any health questions.