Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass , is an aromatic tropical grass species famous for its fresh lemony aroma and taste.

Origin

• Originally from Southeast Asia and South Asia, especially India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia.
• Grows naturally in warm, humid climates in open fields, grasslands, forest edges and moist soils with good drainage.

Care

• Grows as dense clumps up to 1.5–2 metres tall and 1–1.2 metres wide, with long, narrow, arched leaves.
• Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct light per day); Light partial shade is possible, but full sun promotes the best growth and aroma.
• Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5–7.0; Add organic matter for moisture retention, but avoid heavy clay or waterlogging (root rot risk).
• Watering: keep the soil consistently moist (not soaked); Water regularly during establishment and growing season, then moderately (drought tolerant if established).
• Temperature: tropical warm (above 20 °C ideal); not frost-resistant (dies at temperatures below 0–5 °C); In colder climates, grow as a container plant and overwinter frost-free (indoors in a light, warm place).
• Fertilization: apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer); Do not over-fertilize to prevent leaf growth at the expense of aroma.
• Pruning: harvesting leaves by cutting off the outer stems layer; Cut back in autumn/winter for bushy growth.

Usage

• Culinary applications: widely used in Asian cuisines for soups, curries, teas, fish, poultry, and seafood; The bottom white stems (base) are finely chopped or crushed for lemony flavor.
• Tea and infusions: leaves fresh or dried as aromatic teas for digestion, relaxation and cooling.
• Other uses: as an insect repellent in the garden or home; in cosmetics for skin and hair care (balancing for oily skin, against acne); sometimes as a decorative garden plant due to its fragrance and graceful growth form.