About

Aloysia virgata is a deciduous shrub that can remain evergreen in warmer regions where frost is absent. It features paired green leaves and produces elongated spikes of white flowers from summer through autumn. The blooms appear at the tips of the branches and emit a strong, sweet scent.

About the genus

Aloysia comprises shrubs that may be either deciduous or evergreen, characterized by their aromatic leaves, which can be simple and arranged in pairs or whorls. The plants produce small flowers that are grouped in spike-like clusters.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Plant in a container and protect over winter, if in cooler regions of the country
Pruning
Prune in spring to keep bushy
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free