VLoveof Nature

Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus

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Lemongrass · Cymbopogon citratus

Tall lemon-scented grass for soups and marinades, also used as a mosquito deterrent.

Care and placement

Needs 6–8 hours of sun, a pot 30 cm or wider, even watering, slow-release feed every 4–6 weeks and stalks cut when about 1 cm thick; frost-sensitive.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 120 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 80 cm

Things to consider

ASPCA lists lemongrass as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (essential oils, cyanogenic glycosides; mostly stomach upset in dogs and cats); one other source says non-toxic, so be cautious. For people it is a normal seasoning; sharp leaf edges can cut hands.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in a pot at least 30 cm wide with drainage holes (a mature clump suits about 20 L) or in sunny ground; loose, humus-rich soil.

  2. Light

    Full sun, at least 6–8 hours; tolerates part shade with slower growth.

  3. Watering

    Keep soil evenly moist, not waterlogged; water deeply when the top 2–3 cm is dry; established plants tolerate some drought. Overwatering causes root rot.

  4. Feeding

    Balanced slow-release fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in the growing season; pots can take fish emulsion or seaweed monthly in summer. Too much gives leaves at the expense of essential oil.

  5. Pruning

    Cut outer stalks near the base when about 1 cm thick and at least 30 cm tall, letting the centre keep growing; harvest in the morning when oil is highest; remove dry, old leaves.

  6. Propagation

    Division: dig the clump, split into sections each with roots, trim leaves to about 15 cm and replant; wait a few weeks before heavy harvesting. Division also refreshes compacted potting mix.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Generally pest-free; the main concern is root rot in poorly drained soil; yellow leaves may be iron deficiency. Good airflow prevents fungal disease.

  8. For a bigger harvest

    For a dense, many-stalk clump: full sun, even water, on-schedule slow-release feeding, regular harvest of outer stalks and division when crowded. First harvest comes 4–8 months after planting.