Origin and Common Names
Cymbopogon umbrosus (Hochst.) Pilg. is an aromatic perennial grass belonging to the family Poaceae. This plant is commonly known as Rama Tulsi or Wild Lemon Grass and is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, specifically in Ethiopia and Somalia.
General Appearance
Cymbopogon umbrosus is a tall, slender grass with a height range of 1-2 meters. It has long, thin, and pointed leaves that are 90 cm long and 4 mm wide. The plant also has a bushy, tufted appearance and produces inflorescences that contain small, yellowish-brown flowers.
Uses
Cymbopogon umbrosus has many uses in traditional medicine due to its medicinal properties. It is known to have antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating various ailments such as fever, cough, colds, and digestive issues. The leaves of the plant are also used as a flavoring agent in cooking and are an essential ingredient in many herbal teas. Cymbopogon umbrosus can also be used as a natural insect repellent due to its strong citral scent.
Lighting Requirements
Cymbopogon umbrosus (Hochst.) Pilg. requires full sun or partial shade to grow properly. The plant thrives in areas where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient sunlight can cause the plant to grow weakly and produce fewer blades.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cymbopogon umbrosus (Hochst.) Pilg. is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C but cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures. High temperatures above 35°C can also cause the plant to wilt and stunt its growth.
Soil Requirements
Cymbopogon umbrosus (Hochst.) Pilg. grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. A neutral to slightly acidic soil pH level between 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for the plant. The soil should also be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The addition of organic compost or mulch can help improve soil quality and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cymbopogon umbrosus, commonly known as lemon scented grass, is a perennial grass species that is native to Africa. It can be cultivated both in gardens and pots. To cultivate, plant Cymbopogon umbrosus in a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. It requires plenty of sun, so place it in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Enrich the soil for good growth.Watering Needs
Cymbopogon umbrosus requires regular watering. Once established, water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells. Do not leave the soil waterlogged. It can lead to root rot and plant death. However, ensure the soil is well moistened during extended periods of drought. Always check the moisture level of the soil before watering and only water when the top layer of soil feels dry.Fertilization
Lemon scented grass plants grow well in nutrient-rich soil. Use a well-balanced fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients and ensure healthy growth. Feed the plant once a month with any standard fertilizer. However, avoid over-fertilizing, which results in stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves.Pruning
Prune Cymbopogon umbrosus once a year in early spring to maintain shape and control its growth. Trim back any dead or yellowing leaves to promote new growth and to discourage pests and diseases. Cutting back the plant promotes a healthy growth habit by stimulating the growth of fresh leaves and shoots.Propagation of Cymbopogon umbrosus
Cymbopogon umbrosus, commonly known as Ginger Grass, is a perennial grass that is propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Cymbopogon umbrosus can be propagated with its seeds. The seeds can be sown directly in the field or in a greenhouse. The viability of seeds can be maintained up to six months. The germination rate of the seeds is around 80%.
Asexual Propagation
Cymbopogon umbrosus can also be propagated asexually through vegetative methods such as division, cuttings, and tissue culture. Divisions of mature clumps can be taken during the onset of the rainy season, and each split must contain at least one properly developed shoot. Cuttings from mature stems can also be taken and planted in appropriate soil with good drainage. Tissue culture is another asexual propagation method that has been applied to Ginger Grass, although it is not yet a commercially feasible method.
After the propagation, the plants need to be transplanted to the appropriate field or pot depending on its growth requirements. Their growth must be monitored regularly to ensure complete development.
Disease Management
Cymbopogon umbrosus is generally resistant to most fungal and bacterial diseases. However, it can be affected by diseases such as rust, leaf blight, and smut. The symptoms of rust and leaf blight are the appearance of yellow and brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Smut, on the other hand, is characterized by the development of black masses on the panicles.
To manage rust, leaf blight, and smut, it is important to prune infected leaves and destroy them immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, you can apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease. It's important to follow the instructions on the fungicide labels for effective control.
Pest Management
Cymbopogon umbrosus is also prone to attacks by pests such as stem borers, grasshoppers, and mites. The pests cause damage to the leaves, stem, and roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields.
To manage stem borers, it is important to inspect the plants regularly and remove any larvae or eggs found on the stem or leaves. You can also apply insecticides to control the pests. Grasshoppers can be managed by using traps or applying pesticide. Mites can be managed by using acaricides which help to control their population.
Additionally, it is important to maintain good plant health through proper irrigation and fertilization as this helps the plant to withstand pest attacks. Good cultural practices such as crop rotation can also help to prevent pests and diseases from attacking the plant.
