Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) 

Local Indian Name: Bhustrina, Nimbu Ghaas

Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus

Family: Poaceae

Category and Subcategory: Perennial Herb, Aromatic Grass

Native Region: India and Sri Lanka

Introduction

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial aromatic grass native to India and Sri Lanka. Renowned for its distinct lemon flavor and citrusy aroma, it is extensively cultivated for culinary, medicinal, and industrial applications. In India, lemongrass holds significant economic value, contributing to both domestic use and export markets.

Importance & Benefits

• Culinary Uses: Widely used in Asian cuisines, particularly in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian dishes, to impart a fresh, lemony flavor.

• Medicinal Properties: Traditionally utilized for its potential health benefits, including digestive aid, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

• Industrial Applications: The essential oil, rich in citral, is employed in perfumery, cosmetics, soaps, and as a natural insect repellent.

Description and Cultivation

Lemongrass is a tall, clump-forming grass that can reach heights of up to 1.8 meters. It features long, slender, green leaves with a sharp edge and a strong lemon scent. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, preferring warm and humid conditions with ample sunlight. It is well-suited for cultivation in various parts of India, including Kerala, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh.

Varieties and Cultivars

Several varieties of lemongrass are cultivated, with the most prominent being:

• East Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus): Native to India, commonly used for essential oil extraction.

• West Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Widely used in culinary applications and also for oil production.

Location and Light

• Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure for optimal growth; at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Placement: Ideal for open fields, garden beds, or large containers. Ensure adequate spacing to accommodate its clumping growth habit.

Soil Preparation

• Type: Prefers well-draining, sandy loam soils rich in organic matter.

• pH Level: Thrives in soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.4, with optimal growth observed between 5.5 and 7.5.

Planting

• Timing: The optimal planting period is during the onset of the monsoon season to utilize natural rainfall.

• Method: Propagation is primarily through division of established clumps or by planting seedlings raised in nurseries. Space plants approximately 60 cm apart to allow for adequate growth.

Watering

• Frequency: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.

• Method: Irrigate at intervals that maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging.

Pruning

• Purpose: Regular harvesting of leaves encourages new growth and maintains plant vigor.

• Timing: Harvest can commence 90 days after planting, with subsequent harvests every 50-75 days, depending on growth and climatic conditions.

Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests: Generally resistant to pests, but occasional infestations of aphids or grasshoppers may occur.

• Diseases: Root rot and leaf blight can affect plants, particularly in poorly drained soils.

• Control Measures: Ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and maintain field hygiene. In case of pest infestations, appropriate organic or chemical treatments can be applied.

Environmental Conditions

• Temperature: Optimal growth occurs between 18°C to 29°C.

• Rainfall: Prefers annual rainfall between 700 to 4100 mm, evenly distributed throughout the year.

• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity conditions.

Propagation

• Methods: Primarily propagated through division of mature clumps or by rooting stalks in water before transplanting.

• Process: For clump division, separate healthy sections with roots and replant them at the desired site. When rooting stalks, place the basal ends in water until roots develop, then transplant into prepared soil.

Uses

• Culinary: Utilized in teas, soups, curries, and marinades for its distinct lemon flavor.

• Medicinal: Employed in traditional remedies for digestive issues, fever reduction, and as an anti-inflammatory agent.

• Industrial: Essential oil is used in manufacturing soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, and as a natural preservative.

Monetary Benefits

• Economic Value: Lemongrass cultivation offers a lucrative income source due to its high demand in culinary, medicinal, and industrial sectors.

• Market Demand: India contributes approximately 80-85% of the total world production of lemongrass, with significant exports of lemongrass oil.

References

https://plantura.garden/uk/herbs/lemongrass/planting-lemongr