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Produce Briefs...
Ramps
The wild ramp, AKA wild leek, botanical name Allium tricoccum, is a flowering perennial plant that grows in clusters. It is a member of the Allium family along with onions and leeks
Calamondin Limes
The Calamondin lime is a cross between a sour, loose skinned mandarin and a kumquat, therefore technically making it an orangequat.
Salanova® Lettuces
Salanova® lettuce is a full-sized variety developed for the baby lettuce market. Botanically these varieties are scientifically known as Lactuca sativa.
Description/Taste
Lemon Verbena is a woody shrub that can reach heights as tall as 5 meters when left unpruned. It produces narrow lanceolate shaped leaves approximately 7-10 centimeters long. The rough-textured leaves are brilliant green and rich in essential oils. Leaves are strongest at the time of flowering. When agitated they release a robust lemony fragrance with hints of ginger and spice. The herb is slightly sour on the palate, but also possesses a sweet and fruity flavor that is more potent than other lemon-scented herbs.
Seasons/Availability
Lemon Verbena is available year-round, with peak season in the summer.
Current Facts
Lemon Verbena is a perennial shrub with highly aromatic herbal leaves. It goes by a multitude of botanical names including, Aloysia citriodora, Aloysia triphylla, Lippia citriodora, Verbena citriodora and Verbena triphylla. The most notable is of the genus Aloysia, said to be derived from the Spanish princess, Louisa of Parma, and the inspiration of its common name, Herb Louisa.
Nutritional Value
Lemon Verbena is rich in essential oils commonly used in herbal remedies for digestive ailments, fever and even depression.
Applications
Lemon Verbena is an incredibly versatile herb, appropriate for both sweet and savory dishes. The young leaves are sweet and tender and may be eaten raw in pestos, vinaigrettes and salads. The larger leaves should be left for cooked preparations, such as in marinades or infusing oils and syrups. Use Lemon Verbena to flavor jellies, jams, fruit glazes, crème brulee, ice cream, sodas and teas. Complimentary flavors include anise hyssop, basil, lemon grass, lavender, mint, thyme, ginger, apricots, berries, melon, nectarine, peaches, cream and honey. The leaves may be dried and kept in an airtight jar away from light. Fresh leaves should be wrapped in damp paper towels and refrigerated.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
In France, Lemon Verbena is responsible for making their beloved tea known as "verveine". Lemon Verbena oil was initially used by the Victorians in their potpourri, perfume and cosmetics for before the much cheaper, lemongrass oil replaced it.
Geography/History
Lemon Verbena is native to Argentina and Chile. It was brought to Europe in the 17th Century by Spanish explorers, and later naturalized in temperate climates throughout the world. The plants thrive in hot climates with full sun so as to develop to most oil-rich leaves. Plants in only partial sun become spindly and develop meager, thin foliage with minimal oil content. The oil glands of the Lemon Verbena leaf are on the underside of the leaf and are used to cool the plant during hot summers.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Lemon Verbena. One
is easiest, three is harder.Recently Spotted
People have spotted Lemon Verbena using the Specialty Produce app for iPhone and Android.
Produce Spotting allows you to share your produce discoveries with your neighbors and the world! Is your market carrying green dragon apples? Is a chef doing things with shaved fennel that are out of this world? Pinpoint your location annonymously through the Specialty Produce App and let others know about unique flavors that are around them.
Hillcrest Farmers Market
Terra Madre Gardens
Near San Diego, California, United States, Escondido 760-888-7640 About 96 days ago, 12/16/18 Spotter's comments : Lemon Verbena spotted at Hillcrest Farmers Market. 
Chino's Vegetable Shop
Chino’s Farms - Vegetable Stand
Near Fairbanks Ranch, California, United States6123 Calzada Sel Bosque, Del Mar 92014 858-756-3184 About 97 days ago, 12/15/18 Spotter's comments : Lemon Verbena spotted at Chino's Vegetable Shop. First Alternative Natural Foods Co-Op Near Corvallis, Oregon, United States About 283 days ago, 6/12/18 Spotter's comments : Lemon Verbena spotted at First Alternative Natural Foods Co-Op. 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 653 days ago, 6/07/17 Spotter's comments : Lemon Verbena spotted at Santa Monica Farmers Market. santa rosa farmers market Near Santa Rosa, California, United States About 678 days ago, 5/13/17 Spotter's comments : Lemon Verbena spotted at santa rosa farmers market. |
