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This plant, so known for being the best natural repellent against persistent mosquitoes, is sometimes confused with other species due to its particular lemon aroma. Hence, many wonder, what is the true citronella plant? The answer to this question is that we know all plants belonging to the genus Cymbopogon as citronella. Hence we leave out other species such as the known Pelargonium Citrodorum, also popularly called citronella geranium, which, obviously, is also widely used not only as an anti-mosquito but for its rich aroma. Join us in this Green Ecologist article to learn about the different types of citronella to learn its care and uses.
Citronella taxonomy
Like the rest of the plants, citronella belongs to the Plantae kingdom, specifically to the Poales order. It is here where the Poaceae family is found and within it we find the genus Cymbopogon to which all types of citronella belong. In addition, it should be noted that although melissa is commonly known by some as false citronella, it should be known that both species do not belong to the same taxon, even though they are all characterized by that particular citrus aroma.
The plants belonging to the genus Cymbopogon are native to Southeast Asia and have in common being perennial herbaceous plants with a characteristic intense green color, as well as their lemon scent, as we have already commented. In addition, they can reach one meter in height.
Cymbopogon nardus
Many consider Cymbopogon nardus or Ceylon lemongrass as the true citronella plant, perhaps because it is one of the most used species for its essential oil. This herbaceous perennial and very tussock, thanks to its large creeping rhizome, can reach up to a meter in length. Its apex is glaucous green and presents its flowers in compact inflorescences. They reproduce both by division and by seeds.
Cymbopogon Winterianus
Also known as java citronella is, together with Cymbopogon nardus, the plant citronella mosquito most used due to its high concentration of essential oils. In this other post you can learn more Home remedies for mosquitoes.
As with the rest of the plants within the genus, it is a perennial aromatic herbaceous that is characterized by forming clumps due to its rhizome, much shorter than in the case of Cymbopogon nardus. Here you can learn more about Rhizomes: definition and examples of plants.
In the same way, it is capable of exceeding 2 meters in altitude and has lanceolate and narrow leaves, but with a characteristic reddish outline.
Image: ResearchGate
Cymbopogon Citratus
The citronella citrus It is a perennial herb, with a short and aromatic rhizome. It has erect stems of up to 2 m and with knots with a lot of bloom. Furthermore, its leaves are alternate, flat, with a scabrid margin, an acute apex, a narrow base, a striated, glabrous and auriculate sheath.
Its inflorescences, that is, its clusters of flowers are cluster-shaped and pendulous between 30 and 50 cm. Its spikelet is sessile, mutic and with a concave back.
Cymbopogon Martini
This herbaceous from South Asia and belonging to the genus Cymbopogon is popularly known as palmarosa. It is also recognized for its essential oil with rose smell and is capable of passing a meter in height. In addition, it is characterized by its small reddish inflorescences. Its best method of reproduction is through seeds, which you can grow throughout the year. Regarding its care, we recommend that you place it in a place where it receives direct sunlight, as long as the temperatures do not exceed 30 ºC.
Cymbopogon Flexuosus
As with most plants belonging to the genus cymbopogon, it has a pleasant lemon scent able to repel mosquitoes. The Cymbopogn flexuosus It has elongated green and sharp leaves, typical of grasses. You can grow it both in the garden soil and in a pot.
You can read more about What are grasses in this other article.
Image: Anthropocene
Cymbopogon Bombycinus
This herbaceous plant is native to Australia and is characterized by presenting silky hairs on its sheets. Also, contrary to what happens with most citronella, it is not used as a mosquito repellent. Its medicinal use focuses on fight pain thanks to its essential oil or by burning it to breathe in its aroma to improve colds.
Cymbopogon Schoenanthus
As in the previous case, this type of Cymbopogon is not used as a mosquito repellent but to fight bacteria and fungi. This plant is native to Saudi Arabia, so it tolerates the high temperatures and it does not need too much irrigation as it is typical of desert landscapes.
Cymbopogon Obtectus
Finally, this type of citronella is used to help improve soil conditions and thus create a more suitable ecosystem for the rest of the plants. Its use to repopulate affected areas thanks to its resistance to extreme climates makes this species a perfect ally against desertification. It is also characterized by having silky whitish hairs.
Learn more about this serious soil problem by reading this other post by Green Ecologist on Desertification: what it is, causes and consequences.
Image: Naturalista
What is it for and how to care for citronella
The citronella oil it is used not only to combat the annoying mosquitoes and other insects, but it is also used as a condiment and for its medicinal properties, as we have explained in each of the previous cases. In addition, its fresh leaves are used as an air freshener and anti-mosquitoes and there is also the option of citronella-scented candles for the same.
Therefore, we can say that basic citronella care are:
- It needs to be located in a place where it receives direct sunlight.
- It must have a well-drained substrate to prevent the roots from rotting from humidity.
- It requires moderate watering, especially during the summer, which is when you must prune it.
- It will improve its growth and appearance if you use organic matter to fertilize it.
Learn much more about Citronella: care and what it is for with this Green Ecologist guide.
If you want to read more articles similar to Types of citronella, we recommend that you enter our category of Outdoor Plants.
