A striking and aromatic grass, Cymbopogon citratus – better known as lemongrass – forms tall, fountain-like clumps of slender, arching leaves with a fresh citrus scent. Popular in both ornamental and culinary gardens, it’s grown for its upright form and fragrant stems, which are widely used in Southeast Asian cooking. While not hardy in the UK, lemongrass can be grown outdoors in summer or year-round in a greenhouse or large pot.
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as Lemongrass, is a tropical perennial grass prized for both its appearance and flavour. In the UK, it’s typically grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
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Tender Perennial
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Clump-forming, Upright, Aromatic foliage
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Flowers: Rarely flowers in UK conditions
Foliage: May – October (year-round if overwintered indoors)
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Scientific Name
Cymbopogon citratus (from Greek kymbe = boat and pogon = beard, referring to the shape and bristly texture of the flower spikelets)
Common Names
Lemongrass, West Indian Lemongrass
Origin
Tropical Asia, particularly India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia
Pruning Tips
Harvest regularly to encourage fresh growth. In late autumn, cut back any dead or damaged foliage if overwintering indoors.
Wildlife Value
Minimal wildlife value in the UK, but may provide shelter for insects in dense clumps
Positioning
Full sun, sheltered location. Best grown in pots so it can be brought indoors before frost
Water
Water freely during the growing season; reduce watering in winter if overwintered under cover
Soil
Rich, free-draining soil or compost. Add grit to pots for drainage if needed
Food
Feed every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser in the growing season
Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic, but large amounts may cause digestive upset
Sprouts Top Tips
For a constant supply of usable stalks, grow lemongrass in a deep container and keep it well-fed. Bring it into a sunny conservatory or windowsill before the first frost to keep it going year after year.
