Fragrant Lemon-Scented Culinary Herb
Lemongrass is a graceful, clump-forming grass with long, slender, arching leaf blades. There are a number of species of Lemongrass, but the one most frequently used is the highly fragrant Cymbopogon citratus, native to Southeast Asia. It is a perennial in tropical and subtropical areas but grows as an annual in colder climates.
This beautiful grass is also grown as an ornamental, reaching about 2 feet high by 3 feet wide. Lemongrass is prized for its sweet, lemony essence and many uses, from Asian cuisine and herbal tea to aromatherapy, soaps, and perfumes. Its oils are also used in disinfectants, cleaning agents, and insect-repelling products, especially for mosquitoes.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Lemongrass is a versatile plant valued for both its culinary and traditional medicinal uses. Its sweet and lemony essence is a popular flavoring in Asian cuisine, while herbal tea made from Lemongrass is traditionally used to relieve anxiety and pain and gently promote sleep.
Lemongrass is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin C. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used traditionally as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal herb, as well as for digestive problems, high blood pressure, and as a fever reducer. Its fresh lemon fragrance is also used in aromatherapy, soaps, and perfumes.
Why Grow Lemongrass?
- Sweet, lemony flavor for Asian cuisine and herbal tea
- Graceful ornamental grass with fragrant foliage
- Traditionally valued for a variety of wellness uses
- Naturally insect-repelling, especially against mosquitoes
- Excellent for containers and small-space growing