Lemon Grass

(Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as Lemon Grass or Lemongrass, is an evergreen perennial grass native to open woodlands and grasslands in the Indian Subcontinent and Maritime Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet and a width of 2-3 feet. The plant features arching, bluish-green foliage with linear leaves that can reach 18–36 inches in length, and parallel venation. Lemongrass is valued for its citrus-scented leaves, which are widely used in culinary applications, particularly in Southeast Asian cuisine. It also has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Lemongrass thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils. It is not frost-hardy and should be grown in containers in cooler climates to be brought indoors during winter. In warmer regions, it can be used as a fragrant ornamental grass in borders or as a privacy screen. Lemongrass can be propagated by division or from stem cuttings. It is generally pest-resistant but may be susceptible to rust, blight, and leaf spot diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and grasslands in the Indian Subcontinent and Maritime Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Lemongrass, West Indian Lemongrass, Lemongras, Westindisches Zitronengras, Zitronengras, Pasto Limón, Zacate Dete, Zacate Limón, Herbe Citron, Citronelle

Scientific Names: , Cymbopogon citratus, Andropogon citratus, Andropogon citriodorus, Andropogon nardus subsp. cerifer, Andropogon ceriferus, Andropogon cerifer, Andropogon fragrans, Andropogon nardus subsp. ceriferus, Andropogon nardus var. ceriferus

GBIF Accepted Name: Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf