Also known as Java Citronellagrass
Cymbopogon grass (Cymbopogon winterianus) is a fragrant, tall clumping grass known for its distinct citrusy aroma, widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and fragrance.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during growth, allow slight drying between waterings in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost and extreme cold.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cymbopogon winterianus prefers consistently moist soil during its growing season. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Prune Cymbopogon grass annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back the old foliage by about one-third to one-half to maintain a tidy shape and encourage vigorous new growth.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the year.
Propagate Cymbopogon winterianus through division or by sowing seeds. Divisions are best done in spring when the plant is actively growing.
Carefully divide clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots. Seeds can be sown in spring in well-draining potting mix.
Repot Cymbopogon grass every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one with good drainage.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil and perlite or sand.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cymbopogon Grass (Cymbopogon winterianus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cymbopogon |
| Species | Cymbopogon winterianus |
Similar in genus Cymbopogon
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
