Asian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus)

Our Asian lemongrass plants usually stays dormant during colder months. Around spring time they need to be pruned down to its shoulder to allow new leaves to sprout.

Also known as West Indies Lemongrass, originally from Malaysia, with big stalks, strong flavours and fragrancy smells when sliced. Do not mistake this as Citronella as they are two completely different species. This one is a large Asian variety hardly available elsewhere in NZ.

The lemongrass plant is a culinary herbs native of East India, and widely used in Asian, Caribbean and Mexican cuisine. Known for its light, lemony flavor, it adds the same fruity citrus taste as an actual lemon, without any bitter consequences.

Plant Care 

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Can tolerate a wide pH range.
• Watering: Requires consistent moisture. Water regularly to keep the soil from drying out completely, especially in hot, dry weather.
• Temperature: Best grown in warm climates, ideal temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C. It is frost-sensitive and needs protection or overwintering indoors in cooler climates.
• Light: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun encourages the most robust growth and flavor concentration.
• Fertilising: Fertilise every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10. Lemongrass benefits significantly from regular feeding, especially when harvested frequently.
• Pruning: Trim regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. Harvesting the stalks for culinary use naturally helps manage plant size.
• Mulching:Apply organic mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep root temperatures stable.
• Pest Control: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from rust or fungal infections. Treat with organic fungicides and ensure good air circulation to prevent issues.
• Flowering and Fruiting: Lemongrass rarely flowers outside tropical climates. It is primarily grown for its aromatic leaves.
• Potting: Suitable for container gardening. Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate rapid growth and has good drainage. Potted plants may need more frequent watering and fertilization.
• Feeding Regime: Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil can improve nutrient availability, especially after harvesting leaves which can deplete soil resources.