The latter name comes from the fact that the leaves can smell of lemon, especially when crushed up.
The species is native to the United States, particularly in the southern areas where it’s warmer. A natural population can be found elsewhere, even as far away as South Korea.
It is actually a flowering herb, which typically grows on land near water. It has a waxy coating on its leaves to increase its tolerance to water and helps it to flower in wet environments.
Its ability to survive in an aquarium environment shows its hardy nature.