Cymbopogon citratus
Overview
Uses: Culinary herb, teas, patio containers, tropical-style landscapes, edible gardens.
Benefits: Strong citrus aroma with sweet grassy notes, thick flavorful stalks for cooking, fast-growing upright clumps with ornamental appeal.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–12 (grown as an annual in colder climates)
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Tender Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Upright — fountain-like blades forming dense tufts.
Foliage Color: Green
Mature Height: 24–48"
Mature Width: 18–36"
Bloom Season: Summer to Fall (rare in annual plantings)
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
A fragrant, fast-growing herb that brings bold citrus aroma and tropical texture to gardens and containers.
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as West Indian Lemongrass, forms upright clumps of arching green blades prized for their fresh citrus fragrance and culinary versatility. The thick lower stalks are commonly harvested for soups, curries, marinades, and teas.
In warm climates, it grows as a tender perennial, while in cooler regions it performs well as a summer annual or container specimen. Its structured, fountain-like habit also makes it an attractive addition to patio displays and edible landscapes.
Care
Cymbopogon citratus Care
Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for vigorous growth.
Plant in rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Water regularly during active growth, particularly in containers.
Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer at planting or early in the growing season.
Protect from temperatures below 60°F. In cooler climates, plants may be overwintered indoors in bright light.
Container Growing: Lemongrass performs well in large containers with adequate drainage. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Cymbopogon citratus for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing at the time of shipment. Each plant is well-rooted and appropriately sized for its container. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us for additional details.
How Large Does Cymbopogon citratus Grow?
When grown as an annual, plants typically reach 24–48 inches tall and 18–36 inches wide. In perennial climates, mature clumps may grow larger over time.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Cymbopogon citratus is commonly known as West Indian Lemongrass or simply Lemongrass.
Is lemongrass perennial?
It is a tender perennial in Zones 9–12. In colder climates, it is grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
How is lemongrass typically used?
The lower stalks are commonly used fresh in cooking and teas. It pairs well with other selections from our herbs and annual vegetable plants collections, and also works beautifully in patio plants arrangements.
