Lemongrass

Looks like grass. Smells like lemons. Grows like it has somewhere to be.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is a fast-growing aromatic grass prized for its fresh citrus fragrance, graceful foliage, and long history of traditional use. Native to South Asia, this warm-season plant develops dense clumps of slender leaves rich in naturally occurring aromatic oils.

Its refreshing fragrance and tropical appearance make it an excellent addition to herb gardens, containers, apothecary-inspired gardens, and aromatic plant collections.

Family: Poaceae

Genus: Cymbopogon

Species: Cymbopogon flexuosus

Common Name: East Indian Lemongrass

Native Range: South Asia

Growth Habit: Clump-forming perennial grass in warm climates

Light: Full sun

Water: Moderate

Plant Care

• Grow in fertile, well-drained soil

• Provide full sun for vigorous growth

• Water regularly during active growth while avoiding waterlogged soil

• Established plants form increasingly dense clumps

• Warm temperatures encourage the strongest growth

• Protect from frost and freezing temperatures

• In colder climates, grow in containers or treat as a warm-season plant

• Leaves may be trimmed or harvested as plants become established

Germination Instructions

• Start indoors or sow when conditions are consistently warm

• Surface sow or cover seeds only very lightly

• Use a fine, well-draining seed-starting mix

• Keep warm and consistently moist during germination

• Provide bright light after seedlings emerge

• Maintain good airflow

• Avoid waterlogged conditions

• Gradually acclimate seedlings to full sun before transplanting outdoors

• Transplant once seedlings are well established and temperatures are warm

Traditional Uses

• Lemongrass has a long history in traditional herbal practices

• Traditionally used in aromatic preparations associated with digestive comfort and general wellness

• The plant's fragrant oils have also been incorporated into traditional household and botanical preparations

• Cymbopogon flexuosus is particularly valued as a source of aromatic essential oil

Interesting Facts

• The strong lemon fragrance comes from naturally occurring aromatic compounds, particularly citral.

• Despite its citrus fragrance, Lemongrass is actually a member of the grass family, Poaceae, rather than the citrus family.

• Cymbopogon flexuosus is commonly known as East Indian Lemongrass.

• Its long, arching foliage creates an attractive fountain-like clump as the plant matures.

• The genus Cymbopogon includes numerous aromatic grasses with histories of culinary, perfumery, and traditional botanical use.

• Warm weather can produce remarkably rapid growth, allowing a tiny seed to develop into a substantial clump of fragrant foliage.

Please Note

Cymbopogon flexuosus should not be confused with every plant sold under the general name “lemongrass.” Several closely related Cymbopogon species share similar common names and may have different culinary, aromatic, and traditional uses.

For cultivation. Historical and traditional-use information is provided for botanical and educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

Bright Citrus. Tropical Growth. A Garden Full of Fragrance.