Herbs
Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass
A large, arching grass with lemon-scented foliage, useful in roomy containers and sunny herb gardens. Overwinter a container indoors before frost.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun
- Mature size
- 2–4 ft. tall × 2–3 ft. wide
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Life cycle
- Tender perennial
Sizes & prices
- 4"$6.99
- 6"$11.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Listed as resistant; not browse-proof.
- Drought
- Needs regular moisture.
- Wet soil
- Moist soil with drainage, not standing water.
- Heat & humidity
- Tolerant.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Keep in mind: Leaf edges can be sharp. Keep cats, dogs and horses from eating the plant.
Culinary uses
- Use
- Lemon-scented leaves flavor Asian cooking.
Growing & care
- Harvest
- Harvest established clumps with at least 12–24 stalks. Cut selected stalks just below the swollen base, taking no more than one-third of the clump. Wear gloves; leaf edges are sharp.
Bring containers indoors before frost. Do not let roots dry out completely.
Sources & photo credits
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
Photo: Obsidian Soul / CC0; resized and converted to WebP · CC0
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Image notes: Lemongrass showing its full leafy clump. Obsidian Soul / CC0. Resized and converted to WebP.
Reviewed September 15, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.