Partial Shade
Easy care
Frequent watering
Half-hardy
H3
RHS hardiness
-5°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | Max | 1.5m |
1m | Min | 1m |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a strong fragrance
Citronella Grass Overview
Citronella grasses are used for the production of citronella oil, which in turn is used in the production of soaps, insect repellents (especially mosquitoes) in insect sprays, candles, and in aromatherapy. Citronella grass and lemon grass are closely related, can look and smell very similar, but citronella grass has reddish coloured pseudostems, and lemongrass is all green. The oils can be used similarly, though they are not exactly the same.
Common problems with Citronella Grass
Leaf blight and anthracnose
How to harvest Citronella Grass
Grass stalks can be harvested from 4 months after planting, cut the stalks right above the roots, just below the soil level.
How to propagate Citronella Grass
Division
Divide plants in spring time
Seed
Sow the seeds in early spring.
Special features of Citronella Grass
Repels harmful insects
Repels mosquito, whitefly adults and other insects
Pot plant
Can be grown in containers, but may become too large
Other uses of Citronella Grass
Medicinal
It is used to treat lice and other parasites, like intestinal worms. It is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal.