How to Grow Citronella Grass
iNaturalist
Citronella Grass
Cymbopogon nardus
grassCitronella grass is a perennial tropical grass known for its strong lemon-citronella scent, which is naturally repellent to insects. The plant grows in dense clumps of long, thin, aromatic leaves and is widely cultivated for essential oil extraction and as an ornamental mosquito-repellent plant. It thrives in warm climates and is commonly grown in gardens, containers, and commercial plantations.
When should you plant Citronella Grass in your zone?
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Example Citronella Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Citronella Grass
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 Grass
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Citronella Grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-12. Can be grown in cooler zones as an annual or container plant brought indoors during winter.
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Get my Citronella Grass timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksFine, grass-like shoots emerge from soil with narrow, light green leaves. Plant is delicate and develops its first true grass structure.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops dense clumps of long, thin, arching green leaves. Citronella scent becomes more pronounced. Height reaches 2-4 feet.
Water regularly. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Mulch around base to retain moisture. Pinch off any flower buds if leaf production is the goal.
Mature Clump
Ongoing (months 3+)Plant forms a substantial, dense grass clump with fully developed leaf mass. Scent is most potent. Some plants may produce flowering stems with delicate panicles.
Continue regular watering and fertilizing during growing season. Harvest leaves as needed. If flowers appear, remove them to focus energy on leaf growth.
Flowering (Optional)
2-4 weeksDelicate, feathery flower panicles emerge above the foliage, typically pale cream or tan colored. Less common in container-grown plants.
Flowering diverts energy from essential oil production. Remove flowers if oil or leaf yield is priority. Allow to flower only for ornamental purposes.
Winter Dormancy (Cooler Zones)
3-4 monthsIn zones 9-10, foliage may brown or partially die back during winter. Plant regrows from roots in spring.
Reduce watering significantly. Move containers indoors in cold zones. Do not fertilize. Cut back dead foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity around plant.
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Apply neem oil spray weekly for infestations.
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Scrape off manually or treat with horticultural oil or neem oil spray.
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Improve air circulation. Remove affected leaves. Apply fungicide if widespread. Avoid overhead watering.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Increase air movement.
Uses
Tea & Beverages
CulinaryCitronella grass leaves can be steeped fresh or dried to create a lemon-scented herbal tea with a refreshing flavor. The tea is traditionally used in Southeast Asian cuisine and is said to aid digestion. [source]
Natural Insect Repellent
HouseholdThe plant's potent citronella essential oil and fresh leaves repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects naturally. Fresh leaves can be crushed and placed around outdoor seating, or essential oil can be diffused. [source]
Essential Oil & Aromatherapy
CraftCitronella grass is a primary source of citronella essential oil, used in perfumes, candles, soaps, and aromatherapy products. The oil has antimicrobial and uplifting aromatic properties. [source]
Traditional Wellness
MedicinalIn Ayurvedic and traditional Asian medicine, citronella grass has been used to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. Modern research is investigating its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. [source]
Fragrant Landscape Ornament
HouseholdCitronella grass adds texture and movement to gardens while naturally scenting the air. It is popular in tropical and subtropical ornamental landscapes for its attractive appearance and functional pest-repellent benefits. [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 fresh leaves anytime during the growing season by cutting stems near the base. For essential oil production, harvest leaves just before flowering when oil content is highest. Cut mature plants back by one-third every 3-4 months to encourage new, tender growth rich in fragrance. Dry leaves in a warm, shaded location for several days before storing. Leaves can be harvested year-round in warm zones but are most vigorous during spring and summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Citronella grass is native to Sri Lanka and southern India and has been cultivated for over 100 years as a major commercial source of citronella oil, used in candles and insect repellents worldwide.
- 🌱 The plant's essential oil contains geraniol and citronellal—the same compounds that give the grass its characteristic lemon scent and mosquito-repelling properties, making it one of nature's most effective natural insect deterrents.
- 🌱 A single mature citronella grass plant can be harvested multiple times per year, with each cutting stimulating new aromatic leaf growth, making it an economical and sustainable source of natural fragrance and essential oil.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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