Pruning guide
How to prune lemon verbena
More lemon verbena care
Pruning lemon verbena — FAQ
When should I prune lemon verbena?
Early spring when new buds appear on bare stems. Prune back each stem by one-third to one-half to just above a visible bud or node. During the growing season, pinch stem tips to encourage branching and a bushier habit. Avoid cutting into completely bare, dead-looking wood in winter — wait for spring bud break to confirm what is alive.
How often does lemon verbena need pruning?
One hard annual cut in spring; light pinching through summer. Lemon verbena is a woody shrub that needs annual pruning to stay productive. Cut stems back by one-third to one-half in early spring as buds break. It drops leaves in winter (even indoors) — do not prune then. Lightly trim through summer to shape and harvest. In warm climates it can become large; keep it manageable with regular cuts.
How do you prune lemon verbena?
Prune back each stem by one-third to one-half to just above a visible bud or node. During the growing season, pinch stem tips to encourage branching and a bushier habit. Avoid cutting into completely bare, dead-looking wood in winter — wait for spring bud break to confirm what is alive.