Lemon Grass
Lemon Grass
CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=189911
Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus
Common Names: Lemongrass, Citronella Grass
Native to: Tropical and subtropical regions of Asia
Lighting Requirements: Full sun
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Width: 2 to 4 feet
Winter Look: Typically dies back
Seasonal Interest: Aromatic leaves and clumping growth habit provide visual and sensory appeal
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates short dry periods
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with good organic content
pH Range: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9–11; grown as an annual in colder zones
Deer Resistance: Generally resistant due to strong citrus aroma
Attracts: Beneficial insects and pollinators
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and animals; edible and widely used in culinary applications
Potential Issues: Susceptible to fungal diseases in overly wet conditions; frost-sensitive
Notes: Popular in cooking, herbal remedies, and as a natural insect repellent; easy to grow in containers or as a garden border.
This plant is not your miracle plant for mosquitos! You would have to sit in the middle of the plant, wrap the leaves tightly around you, and cross your fingers. You would be better off using the leaves to make your own mosquito repellant.