Cymbopogon citratus


Common name(s): lemongrass, West Indian lemongrass


Description: perennial; a tropical grass that can be grown in temperate regions as an annual or in a greenhouse as a perennial. C. citratus is typically the preference for culinary application as its stalks are much larger and easier to process. Leaves smell strongly of lemon when bruised.


Height: to 4 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: medicine, culinary- in cuisines throughout the world, herbal tea


Winter Hardiness: to 30 F and below