Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus)

Description

A tall, clumping grass with narrow, fragrant green leaves and a strong lemon scent. Widely grown for its essential oil and culinary use.

✅ Uses & Benefits
🍽️ Culinary Uses
Adds a citrusy flavor to teas, soups, curries, and marinades.

Used in herbal teas, spice blends, and infused oils.

Pairs well with ginger, coconut, and garlic.

🌿 Medicinal Benefits
Acts as a digestive tonic, relieves gas and bloating.

Has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Used to ease anxiety, headaches, and support detox.

Lemongrass tea promotes calmness and immunity.

🌼 Other Uses
Grown for lemongrass essential oil, used in aromatherapy and cosmetics.

Acts as a natural insect repellent.

Enhances compost and repels pests in gardens.

🌱 How to Plant Indian Lemongrass
Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours/day).

Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil. Add compost for best growth.

pH: 5.5–7.5.

Propagation: From root divisions or nursery seedlings.

Spacing: 60–90 cm apart; grows in large clumps.

Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy — water regularly in dry months.

Harvesting: Cut stalks at the base once thick and aromatic. Best done every 2–3 months.

Best time to plant: Early rainy season or anytime with irrigation in warm climates like Zambia.