Origin
Cymbopogon nervatus (Hochst.) Chiov. is a species of perennial grass native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. This plant is commonly found in countries like Zambia, Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Common Names
Cymbopogon nervatus is known by various common names in different countries. In Africa, it is referred to as "Muvumba" or "Mookaana" in Zambia, "Lavurumwe" in Zimbabwe, and "Inzinzin" in South Africa. In other parts of the world, it may also be called "Kenya citronella grass" or "Gingergrass".
Uses
Cymbopogon nervatus has a wide range of medicinal and culinary uses. In traditional African medicine, the roots and leaves of this plant are used to treat various ailments like fever, malaria, and stomach disorders. The essential oil extracted from the leaves and stems is used in aromatherapy for relaxation and stress relief.
The plant is also commonly used in cooking, particularly in African and Asian cuisines. The leaves and stems are often used to flavor soups, stews, and curries, adding a slightly lemony and citrusy flavor to the dish.
General Appearance
Cymbopogon nervatus is a tall grass that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The stems are thin and woody, while the leaves are narrow and pointed. The plant has a characteristic lemony fragrance, which becomes more pronounced when the leaves are crushed or bruised. Cymbopogon nervatus produces clusters of small, brownish flowers that bloom in the summer.
Light Requirements
Cymbopogon nervatus requires full sun exposure for optimum growth and development. Bright, indirect light can be tolerated, but prolonged shade or low light levels can lead to stunted growth and decreased essential oil production.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to East Africa and requires warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for Cymbopogon nervatus is between 20 and 35 degrees Celsius. It can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates, but it can also be grown indoors in pots in colder regions. The plant is not frost-tolerant and requires protection from freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Cymbopogon nervatus prefers well-drained soil with high organic matter content. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and clay loam. The plant benefits from regular applications of organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and nutrient uptake.
Cultivation
Cymbopogon nervatus (Hochst.) Chiov. can grow in different soil types, but well-drained sandy or loamy soils are recommended. The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is best to plant the seedlings during the rainy season to ensure adequate moisture for growth.
Watering Needs
Cymbopogon nervatus (Hochst.) Chiov. requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Too much water can cause root rot, which can be harmful to the plant's growth. Water the plant regularly, especially during the dry season.
Fertilization
Apply fertilizer once every month, starting from six weeks after planting. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize early in the morning or late in the evening and water the plant immediately to prevent root burn.
Pruning
Prune the plant after the rainy season, which is after the active growth period of the plant. Remove dry or diseased leaves, stems, or flowers. Prune the plant to maintain an ideal shape or size. Cut back up to one-third of the plant's foliage to prevent it from becoming too woody or leggy.
Propagation of Cymbopogon nervatus
Cymbopogon nervatus (Hochst.) Chiov. is a perennial grass that grows in East and Southern Africa. It is commonly known as Kenyan lemon grass. Propagation of this plant is by seed or division.
Propagation by seed
The seeds of Cymbopogon nervatus can be planted directly in the field after the onset of rainy season. The plants are established in a nursery bed for 2-3 months before transplanting in the field. The seeds should be soaked in water for 12 hours before sowing. Germination of the seeds takes 7 to 14 days, and the seedlings are ready for transplanting after 1 to 2 months.
Propagation by division
Division is another method of propagation of Cymbopogon nervatus. In this method, the mature clumps of the plant are carefully separated into smaller clumps. This method is best suited for established plants that have grown for 2-3 years. The divided clumps are then planted in rows with a spacing of 45-50 cm between the rows and 30-35 cm between the plants.
It is important to note that Cymbopogon nervatus prefers well-drained soils and grows best in full sun. The plant requires adequate moisture and responds well to regular irrigation. Once established, the plant can be harvested for its essential oil, which has a lemony scent and is used in perfumes, soaps, and food flavorings.
Disease management
Cymbopogon nervatus is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant.
Fungal diseases
Leaf spot and rust are two common fungal diseases that affect C. nervatus. Both diseases cause visible symptoms such as brown spots on the leaves and rust-colored spores on the plant surface. To manage these diseases, farmers should remove the affected leaves and apply fungicides that contain copper compounds or sulfur to the plant.
Bacterial diseases
Bacterial blight is a significant disease that causes the leaves to wilt and large lesions to appear on the leaves and stems. The best way to manage this disease is to remove the affected plant parts and apply copper-based bactericides to the plant.
Pest management
Cymbopogon nervatus is vulnerable to insect damage, which can harm the growth and yield of the plant.
Insects
The grasshopper, locust, leafhopper, and spider mites are some of the insects that attack C. nervatus. These insects feed on the plant leaves, sap, and flowers, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and reduced quality in the plant. Farmers can prevent these pests by using cultural methods such as crop rotation, weed control, and the use of physical barriers. They can also utilize insecticides containing azadirachtin, pyrethrum, or spinosad.
