ALOYSIA.
U. S. to Chile. A group of over 30 shrubs of the verbena family, often distinguished
by pleasantly aromatic leaves. These are paired along the stems and pointed-oval
to lance-shaped in outline. The flowers are individually small but carried at
the shoot tips in generous, spike-like clusters. The following thrive in a sunny
spot with reasonably well drained soil and moderate watering. Their hardiness
varies.
triphylla (Lippia citriodora). Lemon verbena. Chile. A semi-deciduous shrub of at least 6', rangy but easily controlled and shaped by pruning. It is valued for its narrow, lemon-scented leaves, used to flavor drinks and preserves or just to sniff. The loose clusters of whitish flowers in summer are attractive, though not truly showy. Around 15oF.
virgata. Probably Brazil. Unlike the last, this species remains almost unknown in California. It is a narrowly upright shrub, with stems to at least 10' high, gradually arching over to make a more graceful form. The leaves are narrow, somewhat grey green above and paler beneath. They are not noticeably aromatic. However, the small white flowers, carried in summer and fall in long, branched sprays, have an almost piercingly sweet perfume, which wafts far and wide. Its hardiness is not well tested; assume 20-25oF.