Lemongrass or verbena: how to tell them apart?

Lemongrass or verbena : these two aromatic plants with a lemony scent are often confused, but they belong to very distinct species with different uses, aromatic profiles and cultivation methods.

• Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a Mediterranean shrub with very fragrant, lanceolate leaves.
• Lemongrass refers to several tropical grasses of the genus Cymbopogon, used in Asian cuisine and aromatherapy.
• The two plants share a lemony note, but their morphology, cultivation, and uses differ markedly.
• Lemon verbena is the queen of soothing infusions in Europe; lemongrass is more commonly used in cooking and as a natural repellent.
• Distinguishing between them allows you to choose the right plant according to your needs: herbal tea, cooking, garden or insect repellent.

Lemongrass or verbena: two plants, two botanical families

The confusion between lemongrass and verbena is understandable: both give off an intense lemony scent reminiscent of fresh lemon zest. However, their botanical origins are radically different, which explains their very distinct characteristics.

Lemon verbena, known scientifically as Aloysia citrodora, belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is a perennial shrub native to South America, particularly Chile and Argentina, and was introduced to Europe in the 18th century. It can reach between 1 and 3 meters in height in Mediterranean regions and produces small white or pale mauve flowers clustered in spikes.

Lemongrass, on the other hand, primarily refers to tropical grasses of the genus Cymbopogon, such as Cymbopogon citratus or Cymbopogon nardus. These plants form large clumps of fibrous stems and are native to Southeast Asia and tropical Africa. Their growth habit is radically different: they resemble tall grasses, without woody stems or notable decorative flowers.

This botanical distinction is fundamental. When you buy a plant in a garden center or an herbal tea in a herbalist shop, checking the Latin name prevents any confusion between lemongrass and verbena.

Visually identifying lemongrass or verbena

Visually distinguishing between lemongrass and verbena is simpler than it seems once you know what to look for. The two plants have very different morphological characteristics that allow for quick identification.

Lemon verbena has narrow, lanceolate leaves that are rough to the touch, arranged in whorls of three on semi-woody stems. They are light to bright green in color and have a slightly striated surface. When you crush a leaf between your fingers, it immediately releases a powerful lemony fragrance that is both sweet and floral. The small, delicate flowers appear in summer on long terminal spikes.

Lemongrass, on the other hand, forms large, dense clumps of long, thin leaves with slightly sharp edges, sometimes exceeding one meter in height. Its stems are fleshy at the base, with fibrous bulbs used in Asian cuisine. Its fragrance is brighter, more pungent, and less floral than that of lemon verbena: it is more reminiscent of lime than sweet lemon.

In summary, if the plant resembles a small shrub with rough leaves arranged in whorls, it is most likely lemon verbena. If it forms a large herbaceous clump with fibrous stems, it is lemongrass.

Perfume: commonalities and subtle differences

The lemony scent is what most closely links lemongrass and verbena, and it's often the primary reason for confusion. Both plants contain aromatic compounds from the terpene family, which give them this characteristic note.

Lemon verbena is renowned for its particularly refined fragrance, often described as lemony, floral, and slightly herbaceous. This complex aromatic profile makes it a highly prized plant in perfumery, gourmet cuisine, and infusions. Its scent is considered sweeter and more elegant than that of lemongrass.

Lemongrass has a stronger, more direct, and more camphoraceous scent. This aromatic intensity is precisely what makes it effective as a natural insect repellent. In cooking, it provides a distinct, slightly spicy lemony note, widely used in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cuisines.

For infusions, lemon verbena is generally preferred in Europe for its aromatic sweetness. Lemongrass is more commonly used in Asia and the Caribbean for culinary preparations and traditional drinks.

Culinary uses: lemongrass or verbena in your dish

In cooking, lemongrass and verbena are used in very different ways, although both can add a lemony note to your dishes. Understanding their specific properties will allow you to use them effectively.

Lemon verbena is particularly prized for flavoring desserts, creams, sorbets, and light sauces. Its fresh or dried leaves delicately perfume preparations without overpowering them. It can be used as a hot infusion for custards, panna cottas, or jellies. In savory dishes, it pairs beautifully with fish and poultry.

• Infuse fresh leaves in hot milk for a creamy dessert
• Chopped leaves on a fish carpaccio or a summer salad
• Lemon verbena-flavored syrup for drizzling over fresh fruit — discover our lemon verbena syrup recipe
• Flavored butter to accompany steamed vegetables
• Homemade flavored vinegar for salad dressings

Lemongrass is primarily used in curries, soups, marinades, and Asian broths. The fleshy base of the stalk is most often used, finely sliced ​​or crushed to release its aroma. The leaves are more fibrous and less frequently eaten directly.

• Crushed stem in a Thai curry or laksa
• Sliced ​​stem base in Asian soup broth
• Marinade for grilled meats with garlic and ginger
• Stem infusion for a refreshing lemon tea

Infusions and herbal teas: lemon verbena in the lead

For herbal teas, lemongrass and verbena do not have the same status in Europe. Lemon verbena is by far the most popular in French herbalist shops and the herbal tea sections of supermarkets.

Lemon verbena tea is traditionally consumed in the evening for its calming and digestive properties. Its mild aroma and low bitterness make it a pleasant infusion to drink plain, without added sugar. It is often combined with other herbs such as mint, lemon balm, or chamomile in evening blends.

Lemongrass is also used in infusions, particularly in the culinary and medicinal traditions of Southeast Asia and Latin America. Its flavor is stronger and more intense than that of lemon verbena. It is sometimes mixed with ginger or honey to soften its aromatic intensity.

If you're hesitating between lemongrass and verbena for an evening herbal tea, lemon verbena is generally the more suitable choice for European palates, with a more delicate and less intense flavor. For a refreshing and aromatic drink at any time of day, lemongrass is a good alternative.

Known properties: what we know about lemongrass or verbena

Their traditional uses are described in the herbal traditions of many cultures. These plants have been used for centuries for their aromatic properties and their effects on well-being, although modern scientific data still needs further investigation for some uses.

Lemon verbena is traditionally recognized for its calming effects on the digestive and nervous systems. It is used in herbal medicine to support mild digestive issues, alleviate nervousness, and promote restful sleep. Its richness in aromatic compounds also gives it antioxidant properties, according to available data in plant phytochemistry.

Citronella is best known for its insect-repellent properties, particularly against mosquitoes. This property is widely recognized and has many practical applications, from candles to body sprays. It is also used in traditional Asian medicine for its effects on digestion and fever, although these uses require further study to be fully validated.

• Lemon verbena: traditionally used for digestion and nervous relaxation
• Citronella: a well-known natural repellent against biting insects
• The two plants: aromatic and antioxidant properties linked to their terpene compounds
• Culinary use: natural flavoring without chemical additives

If you are taking medical treatment or are pregnant, consult a doctor or pharmacist before using these plants regularly or in large doses.

Lemongrass or verbena as a natural repellent

One of the best-known uses of citronella is as a natural repellent against mosquitoes and other biting insects. This use is well-established in everyday practice, although its effectiveness can vary depending on the conditions of use.

Lemongrass is used in many forms: diluted essential oil applied to the skin, scented candles, diffusers, or potted plants on a patio. Its intense fragrance disrupts the olfactory receptors of insects and temporarily repels them. The duration of protection is generally limited and depends on the concentration of the product and the weather conditions.

Lemon verbena also has a fragrance that can help repel insects, but it's less commonly used for this purpose than citronella. Its milder scent makes it less effective as a pure repellent, but it can complement other protective measures in a garden or on a patio. Discover how to use lemon verbena as a mosquito repellent in your outdoor space.

For optimal insect protection, citronella remains the preferred choice between citronella and verbena. Combine it with other preventative measures for longer-lasting results.

Cultivation and care: lemongrass or verbena in your garden

Growing lemongrass or verbena in your garden or on your balcony is quite accessible, but these two plants have very different growing requirements that it is important to know before you start.

Lemon verbena is a Mediterranean shrub that thrives in warm, sunny locations and well-drained soil. It can tolerate light frosts, down to about -4°C according to horticultural sources, provided it is dormant. In regions with cold winters, it is advisable to bring it indoors in a pot to a bright, frost-free location during the colder months. It is easily pruned in spring to maintain a nice, compact shape. For all the practical details, see our guide on caring for potted lemon verbena.

Lemongrass is a tropical plant that requires warmth, humidity, and rich soil. It cannot tolerate frost and must be grown in a pot in most regions of France, brought indoors as soon as temperatures drop below 10°C. It needs regular watering and fertilizer during its growing season.

• Lemon verbena: sun, well-drained soil, spring pruning, bring indoors to a pot if there is a hard frost
• Lemongrass: heat, humidity, rich soil, must be brought indoors in winter
• Both plants: propagation by cuttings or division of clumps in spring
• Water moderately for verbena, more frequently for lemongrass

Find all our tips for planting lemon verbena in the best conditions.

Wintering and protection: prepare citronella or verbena for winter

Winter care is one of the main practical differences between lemongrass and verbena for gardeners in temperate regions. Improper preparation can lead to the plant's loss in just a few frosty nights.

Lemon verbena can tolerate slightly negative temperatures if it is dormant and its roots are protected from frost. In Mediterranean regions, it can remain in the ground with a thick layer of mulch around its base. In colder regions, it is best grown in a pot so it can be easily brought indoors to a bright, unheated but frost-free location between November and March. Discover our complete guide to growing lemon verbena in winter to protect your plant.

Lemongrass, on the other hand, cannot tolerate any frost. It must be brought indoors as soon as the first cold weather arrives, placing it in a warm, bright location. Indoors, it can continue to grow slowly throughout the winter if it receives plenty of sunlight. Reduce watering in winter, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.

Winter preparation is therefore more demanding for lemongrass than for lemon verbena, which may influence your choice if you live in a region with cold winters.

Propagation: easily propagated from lemongrass or verbena cuttings

Propagating lemongrass or verbena by cuttings is an economical and rewarding method to expand your collection of aromatic plants or to offer plants to your loved ones.

Lemon verbena propagates very easily from cuttings taken in summer, using semi-hardwood stems from a healthy, mature plant. Cut a 10-15 cm stem just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and plant the base in a light, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location, out of direct sunlight. Roots usually appear within a few weeks. Find our complete guide on propagating lemon verbena from cuttings.

Lemongrass is most easily propagated by division in spring. Gently separate the clumps into several sections, ensuring each section has well-developed roots. Replant immediately in rich soil and water thoroughly. Division is more reliable than cuttings for this grass.

In both cases, propagation in spring or early summer gives the best results, as the plants have the whole growing season to establish themselves before winter.

Comparative chart: lemongrass or verbena at a glance

Common problems and solutions for lemongrass or verbena

Growing lemongrass or verbena can sometimes present a few challenges. Knowing the most common problems allows you to react quickly and keep your plants healthy throughout the season.

For lemon verbena, yellowing leaves are one of the most common problems reported by amateur gardeners. It can be caused by overwatering, insufficient light, overly compacted soil, or simply the arrival of autumn, which triggers the plant's natural dormancy. Consult our article dedicated to yellowing lemon verbena leaves to diagnose and treat this problem.

Lemongrass can suffer from leaf tip dryness in overly dry air, especially indoors during winter. Regularly mist the leaves or place a humidifier nearby. Insufficient light can also slow its growth and weaken the plant.

• Yellow leaves on the verbena: check the watering and light exposure
• Brown tips on lemongrass: increase ambient humidity
• Slow growth: apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
• Aphids or scale insects: treat with diluted black soap
• Leaf loss in autumn on verbena: a normal phenomenon linked to dormancy

Contraindications and precautions for lemongrass or verbena

Although lemongrass or verbena are commonly consumed as part of a normal diet, certain precautions are necessary for more intensive use or for sensitive individuals.

Lemon verbena is not recommended for intensive use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or by young children, without prior medical advice. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Verbenaceae family should also exercise caution. When used externally, lemon verbena essential oil can be photosensitizing and should not be applied to the skin before sun exposure.

Lemongrass essential oil is highly concentrated and must always be diluted before topical use. It is not recommended for children under 6 years of age or for pregnant women without professional advice. If in doubt, or if you are taking medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist before using these plants regularly. See our full article on the contraindications of lemon verbena.

Data available on drug interactions of these plants remains limited: always seek advice from a healthcare professional if you are undergoing treatment.

Frequently asked questions about lemongrass or verbena

What is the main difference between lemongrass and verbena?

The main difference between lemongrass and verbena lies in their botanical family. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a shrub in the Verbenaceae family, native to South America. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon) is a tropical grass from Asia or Africa. Their forms, uses, and cultivation requirements are quite distinct, even though both share a characteristic lemony fragrance.

Can lemongrass or verbena be used in the same herbal tea?

Yes, both lemongrass and verbena can be used to make an infusion, but with different results. Lemon verbena produces a milder, more floral, and delicate herbal tea, very popular in Europe. Lemongrass makes a more vibrant and potent infusion. You can mix them to combine their aromas, adjusting the proportions to your taste. Follow the safety precautions, especially for those with sensitivities.

Citronella or verbena: which is best against mosquitoes?

Citronella is significantly more effective than lemon verbena as a mosquito repellent. Its more intense and powerful scent disrupts the insects' olfactory receptors more effectively. Lemon verbena also has a scent that can help deter insects, but its repellent effect is generally less pronounced. For optimal protection, opt for citronella in the form of diluted essential oil or dedicated products.

How can you visually distinguish between lemongrass and verbena?

The visual distinction between lemongrass and verbena is quite simple. Lemon verbena is a shrub with semi-woody stems and narrow, rough leaves arranged in whorls of three. Lemongrass forms large, herbaceous clumps with long, thin, slightly sharp leaves and no woody stems. Their overall growth habit is very different: a shrub for one, a tall herb for the other.

Lemongrass or verbena: which is easier to grow in a pot?

Lemon verbena is generally easier to grow in pots in temperate regions of France. It tolerates light frosts and requires less constant warmth than lemon verbena. Lemon verbena is more demanding: it needs consistent heat, regular humidity, and must be brought indoors as soon as the first cold weather arrives. If you are new to herb gardening, potted lemon verbena is often the most accessible choice.

Is it safe to consume lemongrass or verbena?

For normal food use (occasional herbal tea, culinary flavoring), safety data is limited; if in doubt, consult a healthcare professional. For more intensive use, in the form of essential oils or concentrated supplements, precautions are necessary. Pregnant women, children, and individuals undergoing medical treatment should consult a healthcare professional before regular use.

Lemongrass or verbena: which has the best fragrance for the home?

To fragrance your home, lemongrass and verbena offer two distinct olfactory experiences. Lemon verbena is often preferred for a soft, floral, and refined scent. Lemongrass provides a more intense and vibrant fragrance, ideal for repelling insects in the summer. For a soothing and pleasant atmosphere indoors, lemon verbena is generally the most popular choice.

How to propagate lemongrass or verbena from cuttings?

Lemon verbena is easily propagated by cuttings in summer from 10-15 cm semi-woody stems placed in a light, moist potting mix. Lemongrass, on the other hand, is best propagated by division in spring: separate the clumps into sections with roots and replant immediately. Both methods give good results if carried out in warm, sunny conditions.

What is the shelf life of lemongrass or verbena?

Lemon verbena is a perennial plant that can live for several years, even decades, in Mediterranean climates or if well protected from frost. Lemongrass is also perennial in tropical regions, but in temperate climates, it is often grown as an annual or brought indoors each winter. With proper care, both plants can last for many seasons.

Can lemongrass or verbena be dried for winter?

Yes, lemongrass and verbena dry very well for out-of-season use. Lemon verbena dries by hanging whole stems in a warm, airy place away from direct sunlight for two to three weeks. The dried leaves retain their intense fragrance for several months in an airtight jar. Lemongrass can also be dried, but its fibrous stems also freeze very well for cooking.

Lemongrass or verbena: which plant should a beginner choose?

For a beginner, lemon verbena is often the more recommended choice between lemongrass and lemon verbena. It's hardier, more tolerant of varying conditions, and more versatile in its uses: herbal tea, cooking, and garden fragrance. Lemongrass requires more attention, particularly regarding heat and humidity. Start with lemon verbena and add lemongrass once you've mastered the basics of herb gardening.

Lemongrass or verbena: how to combine them in the garden?

Combining lemongrass and verbena in the garden is perfectly possible and even recommended for creating a diverse aromatic corner. Plant the lemon verbena in a sunny, well-drained spot, and the lemongrass in a separate pot so it can be easily brought indoors for the winter. Their combined fragrance creates a pleasant atmosphere on a patio or balcony in the summer. Avoid planting them too close together, as they have different water requirements.

Key takeaways

Choosing between lemongrass and verbena depends primarily on your needs and environment. Lemon verbena is ideal for soothing herbal teas, fine cuisine, and Mediterranean gardens; lemongrass excels in Asian cuisine and as a natural insect repellent. These two lemon-scented plants are complementary rather than competitive.

To get started, begin by growing lemon verbena in a pot: more robust and versatile, it adapts better to temperate regions of France. Then add lemongrass if you wish to explore Asian cuisine or strengthen your patio's protection against insects in the summer.

Practical action: Go to your local herbalist or garden center, check the Latin name on the label (Aloysia citrodora for lemon verbena, Cymbopogon for lemongrass) and choose the plant that best suits your needs. You'll never confuse lemongrass and lemon verbena again.