How to Grow Citronella
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Citronella
Cymbopogon nardus
grassCitronella is a tropical perennial grass known for its distinctive lemon-like fragrance and insect-repellent properties. The plant produces tall, narrow leaves and is widely used in candles, oils, and repellent products. It thrives in warm climates and is prized as both an ornamental and functional plant.
When should you plant Citronella in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Citronella timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Citronella
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Citronella
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Citronella dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; can be grown as an annual in cooler zones or indoors
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-14 days in warm conditions; seedlings develop thin, grass-like leaves
Maintain warm temperatures (70-85°F), high humidity, and consistently moist soil. Provide bright indirect light until established.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops multiple shoots and expands leaf structure; establishes strong root system
Water regularly, provide full sun, and fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer. Thin seedlings to proper spacing.
Establishment
4-6 weeksPlant reaches 12-18 inches tall with dense foliage; begins producing aromatic oils
Continue regular watering and fertilization. Pinch back growth to encourage bushiness. Oil production increases.
Mature Growth
Ongoing in warm zonesPlant reaches 2-3 feet tall with full, lush foliage and strong citronella fragrance
Reduce fertilizer frequency. Maintain consistent moisture. Begin harvesting leaves as needed. Divide plants in spring.
Winter/Dormancy
3-4 monthsIn zones below 10, plant dies back or requires protection; in warm zones, growth slows
In cool zones, bring potted plants indoors or treat as annual. In warm zones, reduce watering slightly; protect from cold snaps.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; remove affected leaves
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; spray with neem oil; ensure good air circulation
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Prune affected stems; spray with horticultural oil; apply insecticidal soap
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
Uses
Natural Insect Repellent
HouseholdCitronella's essential oil is a proven mosquito and other insect deterrent used in candles, sprays, and diffusers. The oil contains citronellal and geraniol, compounds that repel flying insects. [source]
Beverage & Tea Flavoring
CulinaryFresh leaves can be brewed into a fragrant herbal tea with a lemony flavor, or used to infuse drinks and desserts. The flavor is mild and citrus-forward. [source]
Traditional Wellness Uses
MedicinalIn traditional medicine, citronella tea is used to support digestive health and may have mild antimicrobial properties. Often used for its aromatic benefits in aromatherapy. [source]
Candle & Fragrance Production
CraftCitronella essential oil is a primary ingredient in mosquito-repellent candles and diffuser blends. The oil is extracted through steam distillation of dried leaves. [source]
Decorative Ornamental Grass
OrnamentalWith its graceful, long narrow leaves and tropical appearance, citronella makes an attractive accent plant in gardens, patios, and containers. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves anytime after plant is established; pinch or cut stems above leaf nodes for continuous growth. For essential oil extraction, harvest in late morning after dew dries. Cut back 6-12 inches from ground for renewal; do this in spring. Leaves are most fragrant when rubbed gently.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Citronella grass is native to Sri Lanka and tropical Asia, where it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as an insect repellent.
- 🌱 A single mature citronella plant can produce enough aromatic oil to scent an entire room; the fragrance is strongest when leaves are crushed or brushed.
- 🌱 Citronella candles became a popular household product in the 1960s and remain one of the most common natural mosquito deterrents, though their effectiveness in open air is debated by entomologists.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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