Lemongrass
(genus Cymbopogon) is a perennial herb typical of the temperate-warm
and tropical regions of the Old World, a grass similar to sorghum, also
known by the English name of lemon grass.
They
are bushy plants that can reach up to one meter in height. The stem is
erect with ribbon-like leaves of a beautiful intense green color tending
to bluish and drooping and both emanate a pleasant citrus scent.
Lemongrass,
whose smell is reminiscent of lemon and widely used in India and other
Asian countries as an ingredient in sauces and soups or in Asia and
Africa for the preparation of herbal teas.
Lemongrass
is appreciated for the extraction of the homonymous aromatic oil and
because it repels mosquitoes and for this use it is increasingly
widespread also in Italy.
SOWING AND CULTIVATION ADVICE
Cover
the seeds with a very thin layer of soil, which you must always keep
moist. The following year, when the plant is strong enough, you can
transfer it to the garden or to the final pot in spring.
Keep
in mind that the lemongrass plant can reach a height of 1 meter and
that its leaves can be up to 60-70 centimeters long. By rubbing the
leaves between your fingers you can better perceive their scent. Place
the lemongrass in the sun or in a partially shaded place. It adapts well
to all types of terrain and even climates that are not too mild, but it
fears the cold. You can repot the citronella seedlings when they have
reached a height of about 10 centimeters, if you have grown them from
seed. Select the 5 or 6 strongest plants to place in a single pot.
Easy germination, no experience required