Lemon Grass plant, West-Indian, Cymbopogon Citratus

Lemongrass – West Indian (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass is the classic tropical herb used in cooking, famous for its fresh citrus aroma and flavour. This variety, Cymbopogon citratus, is the one most commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine and is also a very useful plant in the garden.

How to Use in Cooking

The swollen lower stalks are harvested and used in curries, soups, teas, and stir-fries. To bring out the full flavour, bruise the stalks by crushing them gently before adding to dishes – this releases the aromatic oils. Finely chopping or grinding the tender inner stalks gives an even stronger lemony punch. The flavour is bright and citrusy without acidity, making it a versatile seasoning for seafood, chicken, or vegetable dishes.

Lemongrass Tea

Lemongrass makes a wonderfully refreshing herbal tea, drunk either hot or iced. The leaves and stalks are cut into small pieces and steeped in hot water to release their essential oils. The tea is naturally caffeine-free and can be enjoyed daily. Lemongrass tea is often combined with ginger for an immune-boosting blend.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally, lemongrass has been used in herbal medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. It may help with indigestion, bloating, mild pain, and stress relief. The essential oil contains compounds such as citral, which have antibacterial and antifungal qualities. Lemongrass tea is also valued as a mild remedy for colds and flu.

Household Uses

The strong lemony aroma of lemongrass can be used around the home. Bundles of leaves are sometimes used to freshen the air indoors, and the essential oil is a natural insect repellent, especially effective against mosquitoes. Dried leaves can be included in potpourri or used to infuse household cleaning sprays.

Cosmetics and Soapmaking

Lemongrass essential oil is popular in natural cosmetics, soaps, and shampoos for its clean fragrance and antibacterial properties. It is often included in massage oils, scrubs, and skin tonics. The oil should be diluted before applying to the skin, as it can be quite strong.

Growing Conditions

Lemongrass thrives in frost-free regions and full sun. When living in Brisbane we it grew so well that we used it for mulching. In cooler climates you can still harvest culinary quantities, but in frosty regions the plant should be brought indoors or protected over winter. Lemongrass prefers rich, well-drained soil but is generally not fussy.

Comparison with East Indian Lemongrass

This West Indian lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is coarser in texture than the East Indian lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), which has finer leaves and no reddish colour at the stem base.

Integration into the Garden

Lemongrass can be grown as a culinary herb, a garden mulch plant, or an attractive ornamental clump in pathways and borders. It grows well in pots, making it easy to move indoors for winter protection in colder climates.

Summary

Lemongrass (West Indian, Cymbopogon citratus) is a versatile herb for the kitchen and garden. With its citrusy flavour for cooking, soothing medicinal qualities, use in teas and cosmetics, and even household applications, it is an essential plant for any home garden or food forest. Available now from Food Forest Plants.