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citronella grass
Scientific Name: Cymbopogon nardus
Family: Poaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Citronella Plant: More Than Just a Mosquito Repellent?
The term "citronella plant" can be confusing as it refers to two different plants: citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus) and citronella geraniums (Pelargonium citrosum). Both contain citronella oil and are commonly marketed for their purported mosquito-repelling properties, though some studies suggest the living plant is not very effective.
Considerations for Pets
- The leaves of the citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) have a lacy shape that some animals might find interesting.
Considerations for Children
- The leaves of the citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) have a lacy shape that some children might find interesting, and they may be tempted to rub the leaves to release the scent.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Cymbopogon nardus (Citronella Grass) and Pelargonium citrosum (Citronella Geranium)
- Common Names: Citronella plant, Citronella grass, Mosquito plant, Lemongrass, Nardus, Nard Grass, Mana Grass, Barbed Wire Grass, Silky heads, Cha de Dartigalongue, Fever Grass, Tanglad, Hierba Luisa or Gavati Chaha, ginger grass oil plant
- Family (Cymbopogon nardus): Poaceae (also known as Gramineae)
- Subfamily (Cymbopogon nardus): Panicoideae
- Synonyms (Cymbopogon nardus): Cymbopogon marginatus, C. citratus, Cymbopogon winterianus
Distribution and Habitat
Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) is native to Southeast Asia. It's also commonly found in some Asian countries and islands in the South Pacific. The text refers to Tropical East Asia as it's region of origin. It is grown commercially in some regions.
Morphological Characteristics
- Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus) grows to approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet) tall.
- It features magenta-colored base stems.
- It is a tall tufted, long-lived (perennial) grass with narrow leaf-blades.
- Citronella grass is described as a coarse, clump-forming tropical grass.
- The stems are canelike, and the leaves are grayish.
- Citronella is a beautiful perennial clumping grass.
Uses and Potential Applications
- Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) is primarily known for producing citronella oil, a natural insect repellent.
- The oil is extracted from the grass and used in various products, including scented candles, torches, sprays, and cosmetics.
- It is also used in some Asian cuisine and medicine.
- Some sources mention it is a companion plant and a good source of mulch.
- It is considered easy to grow in containers and can be used as an ornament.
- Citronella is a source of Vitamin C.
Quirky Facts
- Some people use citronella grass as mulch material.
- The citronella fragrance comes from the plant's leaves. Rubbing the leaves releases the scent.
Further Resources
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers information on Cymbopogon nardus.
- Dave's Garden provides a community forum for sharing gardening tips and ideas.