How to Grow Citronella Plant
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Citronella Plant
Cymbopogon nardus
grassCitronella is a tropical perennial grass native to Sri Lanka, known for its strong lemon-like fragrance and mosquito-repelling properties. The plant produces tall, aromatic leaves that contain citronella oil, which is extracted and used in candles, repellents, and aromatherapy products. It grows as a dense clump of reed-like foliage and thrives in warm, humid climates.
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Example Citronella Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Citronella Plant
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 Plant
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Citronella Plant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; can be grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones
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Establishment
2-3 weeksNew shoots emerge from rhizomes; small grass-like leaves begin forming
Keep soil consistently moist; provide partial shade for first 2-3 weeks; protect from strong winds
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksClump expands with tall, slender green leaves reaching 2-3 feet; foliage becomes dense and fragrant
Water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; begin harvesting outer leaves once plant is established
Mature Growth
Ongoing, 4+ monthsPlant reaches full size with thick clump of aromatic leaves, 3-4 feet tall; foliage is vibrant green
Continue regular watering and monthly feeding; harvest leaves regularly to encourage bushiness; in zones 10-11, can persist year-round
Flowering
2-4 weeks (rare)Small, pale yellow or whitish flowers appear on tall inflorescences above foliage (uncommon in cultivation)
Flowering diverts energy; deadhead to encourage leaf production if prioritizing foliage harvest
Dormancy/End of Season
3-4 months (depending on climate)In cooler climates, foliage yellows and dies back after frost; in warm zones, plant may persist or decline in winter
In zones 8-9, mulch heavily for potential regrowth; in cooler zones, dig up rhizomes and store indoors for replanting in spring
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation is severe; increase humidity
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs; spray neem oil or horticultural soap weekly
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Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil or neem oil spray
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Allow soil surface to dry between waterings; use sand layer on top of soil; apply neem oil drench
Uses
Herbal tea and beverages
CulinaryFresh or dried citronella leaves brew into a fragrant, lemon-scented tea with mild digestive and calming properties. The leaves can be used alone or blended with other herbs for flavored beverages. [source]
Natural mosquito repellent
HouseholdCitronella oil extracted from leaves is a well-known natural insect repellent used in candles, diffusers, sprays, and topical products. The oil's citronellal and geraniol compounds effectively repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. [source]
Traditional remedies
MedicinalIn Southeast Asian traditional medicine, citronella is used to treat fever, digestive issues, and inflammatory conditions. Leaf extracts are valued for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. [source]
Fragrance and aromatherapy
CraftDried leaves and extracted essential oil are used in aromatherapy diffusers, potpourri, sachets, and handmade candles for their uplifting lemon fragrance. The oil is also used in perfumes and cosmetics. [source]
Ornamental and habitat plant
WildlifeThe tall, attractive grass clumps provide ornamental interest in gardens while the flowers can attract pollinators. The dense foliage offers shelter for beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves once plant is 12+ inches tall. Cut leaves at the base with clean scissors or by hand; avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once to maintain plant vigor. Harvest in the morning after dew dries for maximum oil content. Leaves can be used fresh, dried for tea, or processed for oil extraction. In warm climates, continuous harvesting encourages bushier growth. For oil extraction, harvest mature leaves and either dry them completely or use fresh leaves with specialized equipment.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Citronella oil contains citronellal, a compound that gives the plant its distinctive lemon scent and accounts for up to 40% of the essential oil, making it effective for repelling insects without being toxic to humans or pets.
- 🌱 Despite its popularity in citronella candles, studies show that citronella's repellent effectiveness is modest and short-lived outdoors; however, it remains a natural and safer alternative to synthetic repellents for many gardeners.
- 🌱 Citronella grass is native to Sri Lanka and Indonesia and has been cultivated for over a century; it's also called 'mosquito plant' or 'fever grass' in various cultures due to its traditional medicinal and practical uses.
Gardening Terms
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