Lemongrass

Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus

Common Name: Lemongrass

Exposure: Full sun

Height: Up to 1.5 meters (5 feet)

Width: Approximately 1 meter (3 feet)

Spacing: 30–45 cm (12–18 inches)

Attracts: Bees and other pollinators

Flavour: Strong, lemon-citrus

Use: Widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine; also utilized in herbal teas and traditional medicine

Plant Habit: Perennial grass forming dense clumps

Harvest: Cut stalks at ground level; remove tough outer leaves before use

Companion Plants: Basil, chili peppers, and tomatoes

General Information: Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemongrass, is a tropical plant native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. It thrives in warm, sunny environments and is valued for its aromatic, lemon-scented leaves. Lemongrass is a key ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes, imparting a distinctive citrus flavor to soups, curries, and teas. Beyond its culinary uses, it has applications in traditional medicine and as a natural insect repellent. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy-loam soil with regular watering to maintain moisture. In regions with colder climates, lemongrass can be grown in pots and brought indoors during winter to protect it from frost.