The fragrance and flavor of lemon acts as a restorative for both attitude and taste. In our zone 6a climate, growing a citrus tree of any kind is not possible. Trying to grow it as a house plant is tricky with little or no fruit. Luckily, multiple choices exist in the form of herbs that produce a lemony scent and flavor. Surprisingly, they are not related to each other botanically. Uses will be in parentheses.

LEMON VERBENA. Choose this herb to grow in a large pot or in the ground, siting it so you brush against it to release its citrus scent. The seeds are hard to find so purchasing a transplant is the best option. It loves full sun and hot weather. To bring inside for the winter, cut it back by half and set in a sunny location. (Tea, jelly, potpourri, candy, ice cream).

LEMONGRASS. The edible parts are the leaves and the “bulbs”, the flattened base of stalks. It can be grown from seed, or if you can find it in the grocery, buy a bundle and root them in water. Lemongrass is a sun lover, needing a minimum of 7 hours/day. Beware, two varieties of lemongrass exist: East Indian lemongrass which is used in cooking, and citronella lemongrass which is not edible and may be invasive. (Asian cooking, tea, cake, curry, bloating relief, sleep aid).

LEMON BALM. These hardy perennial seeds can be found online and are easy to start. It prefers filtered or partial shade. (The strong flavor is used in cake, tea, and cookies. According to the American Gardener Magazine, scientific studies determined it helped reduce anxiety, aided sleep, and treated cold sores).

LEMON-SCENTED GERANIUM. This plant is an annual for us and has both a strong fragrance and ruffled pink flowers. The seeds are hard to find, but you can start with a potted plant from a nursery. It needs at least 4 hours of sun. (The flowers are used in salads, cakes, candy, and ice cubes).

LEMON BASIL. It is considered a tender perennial, so we grow it as an annual. It prefers rich soil and the more sunlight, the better. Prune off the flower sprigs to keep the plant in leaf production. Lemon basil enjoys a good watering once/week. (Any recipe calling for basil if you also want an additional citrus taste).

LEMON THYME. This is a small plant for the front edge of a raised bed or rock garden. Grow it in full sun where it is evergreen. It enjoys drier soils than many plants, Seeds are available, but starting with a transplant is faster. (Flavoring for seafood and chicken).

According to Jim Long, author of many herb books, most of the lemony herbs also attract bees and butterflies.

Call 217-465-8585 or email schiver@illinois.edu with your gardening questions.