Lippia turbinata (Poleo)
Botanical names: Lippia turbinata, Lippia alba
Common names: Poleo, Juanilama, Pamporegano, Pitiona
Family: Verbenaceae
Origin: South America
USDA Zone: 8-11
Cold tolerance: 15°F
Plant form: Large bush
Mature height: 5-10 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.
Watering: Regular
Flower color: Pink; white and off-white
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Fragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicineThis medicinal plant related to Lantana is widely cultivated in Mexico as an ornamental for its aromatic foliage and beautiful flowers. The essential oil composition is unique to each plant, but may include piperitone, geranial, neral, caryophyllene, camphor, eucalyptol, limonene, and many others. The leaves are used for flavoring foods, such as mole sauces from Oaxaca, Mexico. The plant is used medicinally for its somatic, sedative, antidepressant, and analgesic properties.
Leaves and roots are used to make tea or syrup for cough relief and are said to relieve symptoms from anxiety to flatulence and hypertension.
Just brushing past it releases a wave of spicy, citrusy fragrance. It is an herb garden must-have. Fast-growing, drought-tough, flood-friendly, and practically indestructible - it thrives where other plants fail! Whether you re into healing herbs, culinary magic, or just want the best-smelling plant in your garden - this is it.
Similar plants: Lippia turbinata (Poleo)
