Also known as Ginger Grass · Kachi Grass
Cymbopogon caesius, also known as Broad-leaved Turpentine Grass, is a clump-forming perennial grass native to tropical Africa and Asia, valued for its aromatic foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fragrance.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings, reduce in winter.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures during the growing season and can tolerate some frost once established. Protect from prolonged freezing.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer; over-fertilizing can reduce fragrance.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions, as this species is drought-tolerant once established.
Prune annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back the old foliage to about 10-15 cm from the ground to encourage fresh, vigorous shoots.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the year to maintain a tidy appearance.
Propagate by division of established clumps in spring. Carefully dig up the plant and separate sections, ensuring each division has healthy roots and shoots. Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil.
Repot only when necessary, typically when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Spring is the ideal time for repotting.
Use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Broad-Leaved Turpentine Grass (Cymbopogon caesius)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cymbopogon |
| Species | Cymbopogon caesius |
Similar in genus Cymbopogon
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
