The Verbenaceae family, or Verbena family, includes over 1200 species in around
34 genera. Primarily tropical, these aromatic plants range from herbs and shrubs
to trees. They feature opposite or whorled leaves and small flowers with four or
five petals in spikes, clusters, or racemes. Popular for ornamental and historical
medicinal uses, the family is best known for lemon verbena, which adds a citrusy
touch to dishes (Atkins 2004).
