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Plant Profiles / Lemongrass
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Lemongrass
Cymbopogon citratus · Lemon grass
A clumping tropical grass with lemony stems for Asian cooking and tea.
Full sunLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Regular.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
10–38°C (50–100°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
1 m.
Soil
Rich mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Nitrogen.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Mild stomach upset.
About this plant
Native to tropical Asia. Grows fast in heat; cut stems at the base.
Best spots
Sunny balconies and herb pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Cymbopogon citratus |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Origin | Tropical Asia |
| Plant type | Grass herb |
| Mature size | 1 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Lemony grass |
| Toxicity | Mild |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest
Cut back
Divide
HarvestCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown | Cold. |
| Thin stems | Hungry. |
| Rust | Remove. |
| Dry | Water. |
| Crowded | Divide. |
Common questions
Harvest?
Cut at base.
Frost?
Protect.
Pots?
Yes.
Propagate?
Root shop stems in water.
