Lippia dulcis - Aztec Sweet Box

The Sweet Verbena, also known as 'Aztec Sugar Herb', is an aromatic and medicinal plant, reaching a height of 15 cm (6in). Its mint-scented leaves have a much higher sweetening power than sugar. They are used to sweeten desserts or beverages. Plant in spring in May-June.

The Sweet Verbena (Lippia dulcis) is part of the Verbenaceae family. This herbaceous plant, native to Mexico, was used by the Aztecs under the name Sugar Herb. Indeed, like Stevia, the leaves of Sweet Verbena have a much higher sweetening power than sugar but with a slightly menthol taste. It is a spreading plant, about 15 cm (6in) tall. It produces small white flowers in summer. Its leaves are ovate and rough on the top.

Sweet Verbena can be used for infusions or tea. Hernandulcin is the compound responsible for this sweet flavour. The leaves of Lippia dulcis will also bring a note of camphor to your desserts. The camphor it contains is not recommended for heavy and daily use in children.

This frost-sensitive plant can be grown in the garden, depending on the climate, or in a pot to be brought indoors in winter.

Harvesting: The leaves are harvested from June to October by cutting the stems. Harvest regularly to promote new shoots.

Storage: The leaves can be used fresh or dried. For drying, hang bunches of stems upside down in a dry and airy place. Then store them in airtight jars.

Gardener's Tip: To retain moisture in summer and protect from cold in winter, we recommend mulching the soil with thin successive layers of grass clippings, preferably mixed with dead leaves. This protection keeps the soil moist and limits weeding.