Growing Guide: Lemongrass
Growing Tips
Lemongrass grows best in full sun or part shade with moist, but not soggy, soil. It needs loose, well-draining soil and benefits from soil high in organic matter. Plants can be pruned easily to maintain a smaller size and can be harvested year-round. Lemongrass is hardy outdoors in Zones 9–11 with frost protection and can be grown as a summer annual in cooler climates. It is also particularly well-suited to container growing and can be moved to a protected location when temperatures drop.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Cymbopogon citratus |
| Common Names | Lemongrass |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Plant Type | Tropical Grass, Perennial |
| Life Cycle | Perennial in tropical and subtropical climates; Summer Annual in cooler climates |
| Mature Size | Up to 5 ft. tall and wide, but easily pruned to maintain at smaller sizes |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Soil & Moisture | Moist, but not soggy soil; loose, well-draining soil |
| Harvest Season | Leaves: Year-round; Flowers: Fall and Winter |
| USDA Zones | Outdoors 9–11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Growth Rate | Fast, Very Fast |
| Propagation | Division; capable of harvest within the growing season |
| Seasonal Traits | Perennial in tropical/subtropical climates; summer annual in cooler climates |
| Florida Native | No |
| Container Growing | Yes |
