Citronella grass and lemongrass: 4 main differences between the plants

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Citronella grass and lemongrass are two distinct plants that belong to the same family, but they have some differences in terms of appearance, fragrance, uses and growing conditions. Here’s a comparison between citronella grass and lemongrass.

4 Differences between citronella grass and lemongrass

1. Appearance

Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus) is a tall, perennial grass with thin, cane-like stems and long, narrow leaves. The leaves have a greyish-green colour and a rough texture.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial grass that has a clumping growth habit. The stems are thick and bulbous at the base, while the leaves are long and narrow with a vibrant green colour.

2. Fragrance

Citronella grass has a strong, citrusy aroma with a slightly sweet undertone. The scent is often described as a mix of lemon and fresh grass.

Lemongrass, as the name suggests, has a distinct lemony fragrance with earthy and herbal notes.

3. Uses

Citronella grass is primarily known for its insect-repellent properties. The essential oil extracted from citronella grass is commonly used in candles, lotions, and other products designed to repel mosquitoes and other insects.

Lemongrass is widely used in culinary applications and is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine, particularly Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian dishes. Lemongrass adds a citrusy, tangy flavour to soups, curries, stir-fries, teas, and more. It is also utilised for its medicinal properties and is known for its calming and digestive benefits.

4. Growing conditions

Citronella grass thrives in warm and tropical climates. It requires full sun and well-drained soil to grow successfully.

Lemongrass is also native to tropical regions but can tolerate a wider range of climates. Lemongrass prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can adapt to various conditions.

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Conclusion

While both citronella grass and lemongrass have citrusy aromas, they have 4 clear distinctions. These are in terms of appearance, fragrance, uses and growing conditions. An important factor to remember about citronella grass and lemongrass is that citronella grass is specifically cultivated for its insect-repellent properties, while lemongrass is more commonly used in cooking and herbal applications.

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