Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) is a tall, clumping aromatic grass best known for the mosquito-repelling citronella oil in its leaves.
Specifications
| Family |
Poaceae |
| Native region |
Tropical Asia |
| Mature height |
1.5–2 m |
| Mature spread |
0.6-1 m |
| Growth rate |
Fast |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, narrow arching blue-green aromatic leaves |
| Flower colour |
Pale green to brownish (rarely flowers in cultivation) |
| Flower season |
Rarely flowers; late monsoon to autumn if it does |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical; warm humid regions of India |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun |
| Watering |
Moderate; keep evenly moist |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained loam |
| Temperature |
Thrives at 20-35 C; sensitive to frost and cold below 10 C. |
| Humidity |
Prefers moderate to high humidity; well suited to most Indian climates. |
| Fertilizer |
Feed with balanced NPK or compost/vermicompost every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. |
| Pruning |
Trim leaves periodically; cut back hard once a year to encourage fresh, fragrant growth. |
| Repotting |
Repot or divide every 1-2 years in spring when the clump outgrows its container. |
| Propagation |
By clump division or rooted slips; separate offsets and replant in moist soil. |
| Pests & problems |
Generally pest-resistant; watch for rust, leaf blight and occasional aphids in damp conditions. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to humans; mildly irritating to pets |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
<ul><li>Natural mosquito and insect repellent around patios, balconies and seating areas</li><li>Source of citronella essential oil for aromatherapy, soaps, candles and cosmetics</li><li>Ornamental border and container grass in tropical gardens</li><li>Leaves used to make fragrant teas and as a flavouring (related to lemongrass)</li></ul>
Growing tips
<p>Plant at the start of the monsoon (June-July) or in early spring when the soil is warm; this gives the clump a full growing season to establish.</p><p>Position in the sunniest spot you have and crush a leaf occasionally to release the scent near sitting areas. Water generously through summer, reduce in winter, and protect from frost in north India. Divide the clump every couple of years to keep it vigorous and prevent the centre from going woody.</p>
