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Lemongrass
Cymbopogon citratus
Grow a touch of the tropics by tucking a clump of lemongrass into a pot or garden bed. This herb brings the textural beauty and movement of an ornamental grass to the garden, along with one additional feature: lemony leaves with a hint of ginger. Lemongrass leaps out of the ground when warm nights arrive. Watch for fresh stalks to emerge -- combine lemongrass with cilantro, chile peppers, and garlic for the makings of Thai and Asian cuisine. In cold regions, dig a side stalk in late summer and plunk it into a pot to grow indoors through winter.
- Light:
- Sun,Part Sun
- Zones:
- 9-11
- Plant Type:
- Perennial,Herb
- Plant Height:
- 3-6 feet tall
- Plant Width:
- 5-8 feet wide
- Landscape Uses:
- Containers,Beds & Borders
- Special Features:
- Attractive Foliage,Fragrant,Easy to Grow
Harvest Tips
Throughout the growing season, gather leaves as needed, cutting them at the base. To harvest stalks, cut new stalks when they're roughly 2-1/2 inches long and nearly an inch wide at the base. Lemongrass requires liquids to disperse its essential oils. Steep leaves in hot water for a refreshing tea, or use it to season soups, stews, or marinades. Chop excess stalks and freeze for up to one year, and freeze leaf pieces for up to five months. You can also preserve leaves by hanging them upside down in a dark place to dry.
Throughout the growing season, gather leaves as needed, cutting them at the base. To harvest stalks, cut new stalks when they're roughly 2-1/2 inches long and nearly an inch wide at the base. Lemongrass requires liquids to disperse its essential oils. Steep leaves in hot water for a refreshing tea, or use it to season soups, stews, or marinades. Chop excess stalks and freeze for up to one year, and freeze leaf pieces for up to five months. You can also preserve leaves by hanging them upside down in a dark place to dry.
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