Overview
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt, commonly known as citronella grass, is a perennial plant from the Poaceae family. It is native to tropical Asia and was introduced to other parts of the world, including Africa and South America, for its essential oil. The plant is prized for its oil, containing citronellal and geraniol, which makes it a valuable addition to many industries.
Appearance
Citronella grass has a tall, robust stem that can grow up to two meters in height, with leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are greyish-green and have a smooth surface. The plant has an aromatic scent when crushed, which is similar to lemongrass.
Uses
Citronella grass is popularly known for its essential oil that is used for various purposes. The oil is used in the manufacture of soaps, perfumes, candles, detergents, and insect repellents. In cosmetics, it is added to products such as creams and lotions, which helps in preventing body odor. Citronella oil is also effective in repelling mosquitoes and other insects.
The plant is also used to make tea, which is believed to have digestive benefits and helps in reducing fever and menstrual pain.
In addition, citronella grass has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as insomnia, anxiety, and rheumatism.
Light Requirements
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt prefers full sunlight exposure to grow vigorously. It can tolerate slight shading but the plant cannot survive in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt grows well in warm and humid conditions, with an average temperature range of 20-30°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost or low temperature below 10°C, which can cause irreversible damage. It is susceptible to drying out in hot and dry conditions.
Soil Requirements
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt grows best in well-draining soils rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant prefers slightly sandy soils, but can also tolerate clay soils. A soil depth of at least 15cm is recommended for proper root development. Adequate soil moisture is crucial for optimum growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt, commonly known as citronella grass, can be easily propagated through seeds or divisions. The ideal time to begin cultivation is in the spring and fall. It prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. Choose a spot that receives at least six hours of full sunlight every day. The plant requires a pH range between 4.5 and 6.5. It also grows well in pots and containers.
Watering Needs
Citronella grass requires consistent watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, by watering at least twice a week. In hot and dry climates, increase the frequency of watering. Water the plant at the base rather than from overhead to avoid leaf splashing or fungal infections. During winter, reduce watering to once a week.
Fertilization
Citronella grass is a heavy feeder. Thus, regular fertilization is essential for optimal growth. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season. In contrast, reduce fertilization during winter. Remember to follow the instructions on the label to avoid overfertilization and burning the roots.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant healthy and to maintain its shape. Trim the grass frequently to prevent it from becoming too leggy or woody. Prune dead or diseased foliage to promote airflow and prevent pests and diseases. Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring when new growth appears.
Propagation of Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt, commonly known as citronella grass, is widely propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method used for citronella grass. The seeds are sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown ¼ inch deep into the soil and covered lightly. The pot should be kept in a warm and moist environment with a temperature between 20-30°C. The seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or containers.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another common method used for Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants and should be at least 6 inches long. The lower leaves should be trimmed, and the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining medium. The container should be kept in a warm, humid environment, and the soil should be kept moist. The cuttings will root within 2-4 weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is a straightforward method of propagation. The plants are dug up from the ground, and the clump is divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root ball. These smaller divisions can then be transplanted into individual pots or containers.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases affecting Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt is rust. Rust disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia nakanishikii. Infected plants develop rust-colored pustules on the leaves. To manage this disease, plants can be treated with fungicides containing active ingredients such as myclobutanil or propiconazole. It is important to follow the product label instructions when applying any fungicides. Additionally, ensuring plants have adequate spacing and water management practices can also aid in preventing rust disease.
Pest Management
A major pest problem for Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt is the shoot fly. Shoot fly attacks the plant by laying eggs on the plant's leaves, which hatch into larvae that burrow into the plant's shoots. To manage this pest, insecticides containing active ingredients such as chlorpyrifos or lambdacyhalothrin can be used. Plants can also be sprayed with neem oil to repel shoot fly. Regularly pruning and removing infected plant material can also aid in preventing the spread of shoot fly infestations.
