Sweet Almond Verbena (Aloysia virgata)

Sweet Almond Verbena

Aloysia virgata

Its almond-scented blooms perfume summer evenings like a soft, sweet hug. Deciduous flowering shrub; common name: Sweet Almond Bush.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright direct sunlight for most of the day; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot arid regions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; tolerate short periods of drought once established
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Temperature Best grown at 18–30°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow lanceolate gray-green leaves; strongly almond-scented when crushed
  • Flower: Tiny white to pale lavender panicles; dense, fragrant clusters
  • Stem: Woody branching stems; gray-brown, slightly peeling bark with maturity
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support flowering and healthy foliage
Pruning
  • Prune back by 1/3 in late winter to promote bushy, compact growth
  • Deadhead spent flower panicles to extend the blooming season
  • Remove damaged, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; foliage is non-irritating to skin or mouth

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Fragrant ornamental shrub for garden borders; cut flower arrangements for indoor fragrance