Cymbopogon citratus Lemon Grass 
Lemon grass is an aromatic tropical grass with clumped, bulbous stems that ultimately become leaf blades. Lemon grass is in the same grass family as citronella and palmarosa; it has a lemon flavor. It has a branched cluster of stalked flowers and grows in clumps up to 6' tall. The evergreen leaves are bright bluish-green and release a citrus aroma when crushed. It is the leaves that are used as flavoring and in medicine. They are steam distilled to extract lemongrass oil, an old standby in the perfumer's palette of scents.
Lemongrass is native to India and the nearby island of Sri Lanka. It is found growing naturally in tropical grasslands. It is also extensively cultivated throughout tropical Asia.
Gardeners in subtropical areas will enjoy using lemongrass in beds and borders. It also does well in tubs and containers. It is especially nice along walkways where plants release fragrance when brushed against by passersby. If you live in a frosty area, you can enjoy it as an annual. You can also pot it up for the winter and keep it in a brightly lit area indoors.
Common Name: Lemon Grass
Mature Height: 2-3'
Flowering: Unconspicuous flowers
Spacing: 2' |
