Lemongrass Overview
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Genus Name | Cymbopogon citratus |
| Common Name | Lemongrass |
| Plant Type | Tropical grass, Perennial (Zone-dependent) |
| Light | Full Sun |
| Height | 3 to 6 feet (90–180 cm) |
| Width | 2 to 4 feet (60–120 cm) |
| Foliage Color | Bright green |
| Zones | 9–11 (grown as annual or potted elsewhere) |
| Propagation | Division, Stalk rooting |
Why Grow Lemongrass?
Lemongrass brings vibrant tropical aroma, striking vertical form, and powerful culinary potential. With its citrusy scent and anti-mosquito properties, this grass does more than decorate.
It’s an edible herb, a healing plant, and a natural fragrance diffuser for patios and kitchens alike.
Key Varieties for Home Gardeners
| Type | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cymbopogon citratus | Culinary, Tea | Most flavorful; needs warmth |
| Cymbopogon flexuosus | Essential oils, Aroma | Higher citral content |
| Cymbopogon nardus | Mosquito repellent only | Not edible (citronella grass) |
✅ For cooking, choose Cymbopogon citratus—the classic Thai lemongrass.
How to Grow Lemongrass
Light
Full sun (6–8 hours daily). Lemongrass loves heat.
Soil
Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. pH 6.5–7.5 is ideal.
Spacing
At least 24 inches apart — plants grow wide!
Temperature
Thrives in warm, humid conditions. Below 40°F (4°C), it may die back unless protected.
Container Gardening Tips
Lemongrass thrives in pots! Great for decks, patios, and balconies.
- Pot Size: Minimum 12–14" diameter
- Drainage: Essential—add coarse sand or perlite
- Winter Care: Bring indoors before frost or overwinter indoors in a sunny window
Bonus Tip: Place near seating areas to naturally repel mosquitoes!
Propagation Methods
| Method | How-to |
|---|---|
| Division | Dig up mature clump and separate stalks with roots |
| Rooting Stalks | Use grocery store stalks—trim and root in water |
Roots develop in 1–2 weeks when placed in clean water with sunlight.
Harvest & Culinary Use
- When to Harvest: After 4+ months, when stalks are thick and flavorful
- How to Harvest: Twist or cut stalks near the base
- Kitchen Uses:
- Thai curries and soups (Tom Yum, Tom Kha)
- Herbal teas and detox waters
- Stir-fries and marinades
Use lower stalks for cooking, and upper leaves for teas or mulching.
Lemongrass Care Schedule
| Season | Task |
|---|---|
| Spring | Plant divisions or rooted stalks |
| Summer | Water weekly, fertilize monthly |
| Fall | Harvest mature stalks |
| Winter | Move pots indoors or mulch deeply |
Common Problems & Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Browning tips | Drought or wind | Water regularly, protect from wind |
| Stunted growth | Cold or low light | Ensure warmth and full sun |
| Root rot | Poor drainage | Use sandy soil, avoid overwatering |
Healing & Garden Benefits
Lemongrass is known for:
- Stress relief through aromatherapy
- Digestive aid in teas
- Natural mosquito repellent
- Visual vertical accent in herbal gardens
It’s both a kitchen staple and a sensory companion, transforming patios into relaxing retreats.
Best Companion Plants
- Basil: Pairs well in cooking and visually
- Thai Chili: Create an Asian cuisine container combo
- Marigold: Adds color and repels insects
Fragrant, Functional, and Fabulous
Lemongrass is a multitasker: beautiful in form, healing in nature, and indispensable in cooking. Whether in a pot by your kitchen door or lining your garden path, it brings scent, purpose, and beauty in every blade.
