Overview

Lippia alba is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Lippia, part of the Verbenaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lippia alba grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, mediterranean climate plants, flower borders and beds and wall side borders.

About

Lippia alba is a species of flowering plant in the verbena family, Verbenaceae, that is native to southern Texas in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lippia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Lippia alba size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Flower borders and beds, Wall side borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lippia alba

Propagation
Softwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lippia alba?

Lippia alba prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lippia alba need?

Lippia alba grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Lippia alba hardy in the UK?

Lippia alba has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Lippia alba?

Softwood cuttings.

More in the Lippia genus

Browse all Lippia