Sweet lippia

Lippia dulcis is a creeping aromatic plant with naturally sweet foliage, popular in herbal teas and original herb gardens, with a scent of mint, camphor, and licorice.

Format

Hardiness Not hardy

Difficulty level Moderate

Family Verbenaceae

Lippia dulcis is a very unique tropical aromatic plant, appreciated for its fragrant green foliage and naturally sweet flavor with a slightly camphoraceous note. Also known as Aztec sweet herb, it is sought after in herb gardens, container vegetable gardens, and collections of less common aromatic plants. Its creeping to trailing habit makes it an excellent plant for pots, planters, hanging baskets, and edible troughs, where it provides texture, fragrance, and botanical curiosity.

Easy to grow during the warm season, Lippia dulcis prefers a bright location, in soft sun or partial shade, in fertile, fresh, and well-drained soil. It appreciates regular humidity, especially in containers, but stagnant water should be avoided. As it is not hardy in our climate, it is generally grown as an annual or brought indoors before the cold, in a very bright spot. Light pruning helps maintain a denser plant and stimulates the production of new aromatic shoots.

Its leaves can be used sparingly to flavor infusions, cold drinks, desserts, fruit salads, and aromatic preparations. Their sweet and distinctive taste makes it an interesting plant for lovers of rare herbs, but its powerful aroma requires delicate dosing. Lippia dulcis is an excellent choice for adding an exotic, gourmet, and decorative touch to an herb garden, balcony, or outdoor kitchen area.