Cymbopogon Prolixus (stapf) E.phillips

Origin of Cymbopogon prolixus

Cymbopogon prolixus (Stapf) E.Phillips, commonly known as East Indian Lemongrass, is a tropical plant that originated in Southeastern Asia, particularly in India and Sri Lanka.

Common Names of Cymbopogon prolixus

East Indian Lemongrass, also known as Malabar grass, is commonly called 'Chai-Ya' in Thailand, 'Fever grass' in Jamaica and 'Barbed wire grass' in Africa

Uses of Cymbopogon prolixus

This plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking. The essential oil derived from the plant has been used as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antifungal agent. Additionally, the plant is commonly used to flavor a variety of dishes ranging from tea to soups, curry, and seafood.

General Appearance of Cymbopogon prolixus

Cymbopogon prolixus is a perennial grass that grows up to six feet tall with long leaves that can reach up to two feet in length. Its stem is slender and cane-like with a purplish base, and the plant is characterized by its distinctive, citrusy scent. The plant flowers during the summer and fall seasons.

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Light Requirements

Cymbopogon prolixus thrives in environments with ample light exposure. As a result, it is recommended to plant this species in areas receiving full to partial sunlight. The plant requires sunlight to undergo photosynthesis, an essential process that helps in the production of food and growth.

Temperature Requirements

Cymbopogon prolixus is adapted to grow in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires an average temperature range of 20°C - 35°C (68°F - 95°F) to grow optimally. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the growth and survival of the plant. Moreover, the plant requires a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) to survive.

Soil Requirements

Cymbopogon prolixus can grow in a variety of soils but performs best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range, about 6.0 - 7.5. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in low-moisture soils with adequate water retention capacity. However, excessive waterlogging can lead to root decay and adversely affect the growth of the plant.

Cultivation:

Cymbopogon prolixus, commonly known as East Indian Lemongrass, is a tropical perennial grass that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight. It grows well in a variety of soils, ranging from sandy loams to clay loams with good drainage. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20 to 30°C, with a minimum temperature requirement of 10°C.

Watering:

Lemongrass requires regular watering throughout the growing season. The frequency of watering should be determined by the soil moisture level. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to wilt and die. To check the moisture level, stick your finger into the soil to a depth of about two inches. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water the plant.

Fertilization:

Lemongrass requires regular fertilization to thrive. A balanced NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 3:1:2 is ideal for this plant. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used but in moderate quantities as the plant is sensitive to high levels of nitrogen.

Pruning:

Lemongrass should be pruned regularly to promote new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Pruning can be done by cutting the stems to the desired height. It's best to prune during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Dead or old stems should be removed promptly to prevent disease and pest infestation.

Propagation of Cymbopogon prolixus

Cymbopogon prolixus is commonly propagated sexually and asexually. The sexual propagation entails the use of seeds, while the asexual propagation involves the use of vegetative propagules like stem cuttings.

Sexual Propagation

The seeds of Cymbopogon prolixus are usually sowed in well-drained soil at a depth of 1 cm. Before sowing, the seeds are usually stratified by soaking them in warm water for about a day. The stratification process enables a break in seed dormancy, and also enhances the germination rate.

After sowing, the soil is kept moist and warm at a temperature of about 25-30?. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks after sowing.

Asexual Propagation

Cymbopogon prolixus can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings of about 10-15 cm long and 3-5mm in diameter are usually taken from mature plants in the early morning hours. The cuttings can be taken from the base or any lateral portion of the plant.

The base of the stem cuttings is usually treated with rooting hormones like IBA(Indole-3-butyric acid) to hasten the development of roots. The cuttings are then planted in well-aerated, moist soil in pots. The pots are placed in a shaded location to minimize wilting and improve survival.

Roots usually develop within 1-2 weeks of planting, and the plant can be transplanted to permanent locations.

Disease Management

Cymbopogon prolixus is prone to several fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect the plant are leaf spots, rust, and damping-off. To control these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper sanitation practices. Keep the plants clean and remove any dead or dying plant tissues. Prevent overwatering to avoid creating damp conditions that are ideal for fungal growth. Use copper-based fungicides to manage the infections. Keep the area around the plant clean and well-drained to prevent the spread of the disease.

Pest Management

The most common pests that affect Cymbopogon prolixus are mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. These pests can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, affecting its growth and yield. The first step to managing pests is to identify them correctly. Use insecticidal soaps to control aphids and mites. You can use pyrethrin insecticides or neem oil to manage leafhoppers. It is essential to keep the area around the plant clean and free of weeds. Remove any infected plant materials and dispose of them properly. Using sticky traps can also help to manage the pests.