Hebrew: לוּאִיזָה לִימוֹנִית, lu’isa limonit
Family: Verbenaceae
Scientific name: Lippia triphylla
This perennial plant is woody, especially in its lower section. Its leaves have a distinct lemony aroma due to the unique essential oils it contains.
The plant is native to South America and is not mentioned in Rabbinic literature.
Kilei zera’im & kilei hakerem (interplanting – annuals & grapevines): Since the plant is a woody perennial, it is considered a tree. For this reason, it is permissible to plant it near annuals and grapevines.
Orlah (waiting three years for fruit): While classified as a tree, since its leaves are used and not its botanical fruit, orlah laws do not apply to the leaves.
Terumot and ma’aserot (offerings and tithes): Since the leaves are used only to impart flavor and are not eaten on their own, there is no obligation to separate terumot and ma’aserot. Nevertheless, some are stringent and separate terumot and ma’aserot without a blessing.
Blessing for fragrance: Borei atzei besamim (Creator of fragrant trees).
Tree or vegetable: Herb classification
Kilei hakerem:Lemon balm, savory, and lemon verbena planted accidentally under a grape vine
Terumot and ma’aserot: Do I need to separate from herbs each time?
