Lemon Leaf

Botanical Name: Gaultheria Shallon
Common Name: Salal
Cultivation: Full sun on the Pacific Coast
Bloom Time: May
Uses: Commonly used in dried flower wreaths

Lemon leaf is a versatile evergreen with spoon shaped leaves. It grows well in acidic soil, such as a redwood forest, and once it takes hold, it sets roots deeply into the soil and thrives. The leaves are alternate and the leaf margins are "saw-toothed." The flowers are tiny, candy pink and urn shaped. They turn paler as they age. The fruit is a dark purple berry, and it tastes somewhat like a blue berry.

Drying of Lemon Leaf
Lemon leaf is harvested and cut when leaves are full and thick, i.e when they reach maturity. After cutting, collect the leaves and make bunches out of them. Hang the lemon leaf upside down in dry, dark, open, airy place. These leaves must be kept out of direct sunlight or they will lose all of the green color.

Uses
Dried lemon leaf is considered to be the best for making beautiful dried wreaths. It is used for seasoning and flavoring. It is also used for making herbal tea for digestion. It has its usage in cosmetics and potpourris also. It is a potent component in soups, tomato sauces and stews.