If you only grow one herb, make it this one!

Lemon verbena.  Wow.  Instant aromatherapy.  Just pinch a leaf, rub it gently and inhale.  Then let relaxation ensue. Aaaah.

If you have never smelled lemon verbena in its natural state, know that the scent is more than just lemony.  It has a soft sweetness to it as well – almost like the barest wisp of vanilla.  It is just heavenly.

Fortunately, it is also easy to grow.  It needs plenty of sun and doesn’t like to be too dry.  I grow mine in a container so that in winter, I can move it to the garage with some mulch on top, then bring it out again next spring.  It has only been a couple years, but so far it comes back quite nicely.

It can also be planted in the ground as long as you cut it back and cover it really well with lots of mulch before the first frost hits.

A little time in the oven on it’s lowest setting will dry it out quite nicely.  It retains its special aroma really well when dried. 

Of course it is wonderful in tea and as a flavor enhancer for fish.  But as for me, I am won over entirely by it’s scent and enjoy it for that reason alone.  Like most herbs, it is really affordable, too.  I paid less than five dollars at my favorite greenhouse for a good sized plant that stood about 8 inches tall. 

Worth every penny.  Aaaaaaaahhhhh.