As a native of Sri Lanka and India, the lemongrass plant, also known as cymbopogon citrates) has a wonderful fragrance and is a favorite ingredient in Vietnamese and Thai food.  In addition, lemongrass also has natural oils that are used extensively in the cosmetics and perfume industries.  The essential oil found in lemongrass is comprised of a chemical called Citral.

In addition to this oil being used for fragrance, it is also antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic oil.  Additionally, Indians have used lemongrass for centuries, as a means of fighting infection and fever.  For this reason, this type of grass is also referred to as “fever grass.”  Other uses relate to deodorizing in room fresheners and then when used in aromatherapy, lemongrass can be heated and used to soothe aches and pains, as well as work as an antidepressant and stress reliever.

If you were interested in growing lemongrass, keep in mind that it needs to be placed in full sun and requires good drainage.  Since this type of grass is native to tropical environments, it likes good rainfall and humid conditions.  Now keep in mind that lemongrass does tolerate a number of climates so if you are in a dry region, you can provide it with ample misting or grow it indoors.

Many gardeners love lemongrass in that it grows very quickly and makes wonderful filler as well as a primary plant.  You can also divide the roots so as one cluster becomes too thick, you can separate a section and start a new cluster.  With the stalks consisting of dense, tall tufts, they look magnificent.  For this reason, as mentioned the lemongrass makes a great primary plant or an ornamental plant.

For instance, you could plant a cluster of lemongrass toward the back of a design and then place smaller plants in front.  Many times, people will cut the long stalks to create an indoor bouquet.  The stalks typically grow anywhere from three to six feet in height and because they grow so fast, if you do cut some off, they will grow back quickly.

Finding lemongrass can sometimes be challenging.  If you are having a difficult time locating it at your local nursery or gardening center, then you can always check with Asian grocery stores.  When buying, you want to make sure the spears are fat and have light-green bases with leaves wrapped tight so they do not curl or dry out.

When you get the lemongrass home, you want to peel off the outside leaves and then place the stalks in a jar of water and put it somewhere with tons of light.  In most cases, the stalks will root in a couple of weeks at which time you can move them outdoors to plant.