Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a fragrant tropical herb prized for its fresh citrus flavor, aromatic foliage, and vigorous growth habit. Its long, narrow green leaves grow in dense grassy clumps and release a bright lemon scent when crushed or cut. Widely used in Southeast Asian cooking, lemongrass adds fresh citrus flavor to soups, curries, marinades, teas, sauces, and stir-fries. Fast-growing, heat-loving, and highly productive, Lemongrass brings fresh flavor and tropical texture to patios, raised beds, containers, and herb gardens.

Key Features:

• Fresh citrus flavor – stalks and foliage provide a bright lemony flavor and aroma without the acidity of fresh lemon.

• Excellent culinary herb – commonly used in soups, curries, marinades, teas, sauces, stir-fries, and other Asian-inspired dishes.

• Fast-growing tropical grass – quickly develops into a dense clump of tall, attractive green foliage.

• Highly aromatic – leaves and stems release a strong, refreshing lemon fragrance when cut or crushed.

Care Guide:

• Light: Prefers full sun and performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Plenty of sunlight encourages strong, dense growth and flavorful stalks.

• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Lemongrass appreciates regular watering, especially during hot weather and periods of active growth.

• Humidity: Thrives in warm, humid conditions but adapts well to a variety of environments as long as it receives adequate water and sunlight.

• Soil & Potting: Use a rich, well-draining potting mix with plenty of organic matter. Choose a larger container with drainage holes to accommodate its vigorous root system, or plant directly into a well-drained garden bed.

• Fertilizer: Feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer during spring and summer while actively growing. Lemongrass is a vigorous grower and benefits from consistent nutrition.

• Temperature: Thrives in warm conditions around 70–95°F (21–35°C). Lemongrass is tropical and sensitive to frost, so protect it from freezing temperatures or bring container-grown plants indoors during cold weather.

Growth & Size:

Fast-growing under warm, sunny conditions; typically reaches around 3–5 feet tall with a spread of about 2–3 feet when mature. Lemongrass grows in dense clumps that gradually expand over time. Individual stalks can be harvested as needed, and regular harvesting encourages continued fresh growth throughout the warmer months.

Safety Note:

Lemongrass is an edible culinary herb commonly grown for human consumption. The tender lower stalks are the portion most commonly used for cooking, while the leaves are frequently used to flavor teas, broths, and other dishes. Always wash harvested portions before use. Lemongrass should be kept away from pets that may chew on it, as consuming larger amounts can cause digestive upset.