Citrus

Lemon Verbena

Note Profile

Botanical 269 perfumes

Also Known As

Verbena, Vervain

About

Fresh, citrus-herbal with sharp lemon-like brightness

Scent Profile

Lemon verbena has a vivid, citrus-herbal aroma marked by sharp lemony brightness and a green, slightly grassy undertone. Its scent is lighter and more aromatic than true lemon, with subtle floral and leafy nuances. The note evolves quickly, maintaining freshness before fading to a gentle green softness.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeTop · ~1h lasting

Family Fresh & Citrus, Green & Aromatic

Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.

What this is made of

Verbena absolute

A natural extract

CAS 8024-12-2

Verbena absolute (IFRA NCS), Aloysia citrodora. Deliberately NOT 'Lemon essence oil', which a name match returns and which is citrus.

Declarable allergen: Named in EU Annex III as Lippia citriodora absolute products must list this name above a set concentration
Restricted: An IFRA Standard limits how much of this a perfumer can use the limit applies to the perfumer, not the wearer

These are facts about the substance, not about any perfume with this note.

Why that matters

A perfume that names Lemon Verbena can use a different extract, a reformulated version, or a synthetic reconstruction. It can also hold less than the amount that requires a declaration. We cannot tell which applies. These rows cover only the substances we hold a link for.

How the layers join

Origin

Lemon verbena is derived from the leaves of Aloysia citrodora, a shrub native to South America. The essential oil is typically obtained through steam distillation of freshly harvested leaves, which are rich in citral and other aromatic compounds.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use lemon verbena mainly as a top note to impart freshness and a natural citrus lift to compositions. It blends well with other citrus, green, and herbal notes, and is often found in colognes, fougères, and light floral fragrances. Its volatility makes it ideal for opening accords, providing immediate brightness.