Aloysia citrodora

Lemon verbena, Aloysia citrodora, is a deciduous sub-shrub grown for its aromatic foliage, which has a scent that indistinct to that of sherbet lemons. It also has panicles of delicate pale pink flowers, which appear in late summer. Chop a small handful of fresh leaves then steep and strain to make a refreshing tea that can be enjoyed hot or iced.

It's not fully hardy, so will require winter protection in the form of a thick mulch to protect the roots. Alternatively, grow Aloysia citrodora in a container that can be moved to a frost-free location over winter.

For best results, grow Aloysia citrodora in full sun and well-drained soil. Aloysia citrodora has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).