Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant months of winter to prevent overwatering.
Also known as Gardenia.net Pelargonium 'citronella' (scented Geranium) · If You Are Looking For Citronella= Mosquito Fighter, Go To The Genus Pelargonium (e.g. Pelargonium Graveolens) · Lemon Geranium
Citronella costaricensis is an aromatic grass native to Central America, known for its distinct citrusy scent. It is primarily used for its essential oil.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, loamy soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
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
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant months of winter to prevent overwatering.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Light pruning can be done at any time, but heavier pruning is best performed in spring before new growth begins.
This encourages bushier growth.
Propagate by stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Use a rooting hormone to improve success rates. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them consistently moist and warm.
Roots typically form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite.
Repot in spring for optimal recovery and growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Citronella Costaricensis (Citronella costaricensis)
Where Citronella Costaricensis (Citronella costaricensis) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Cardiopteridaceae |
| Genus | Citronella |
| Species | Citronella costaricensis |
Similar in genus Citronella
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data