Lemon grass grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions.
A tall perennial grass, lemon grass is used as an herb, medicinal plant and in teas, while lemon grass oil is widely used in perfumes and other fragrances, according to Purdue University. This grass is composed of about 55 species, most of which are found in warm climate areas. Lemon grass is similar to citronella grass, and can also be used in pesticides.
East Indian Lemon Grass
East Indian lemon grass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), also known as cochin or Malabar, is native to India, though the plant is cultured in numerous countries, including China, Guatemala and Paraguay, according to Purdue University. Growing in clumps as wide as 6 1/2 feet, with individual grass leaves up to 3 1/2 feet in height, East Indian lemon grass requires a warm, humid climate and plenty of sun to grow. These plants can be harvested as often as four times per year.
When used for cooking, East Indian lemon grass can be sliced fresh or used as a dried powder. This herb is quite popular in Thai, Indonesian and Vietnamese cuisines, and is used as a cure for headaches and abdominal pain in traditional Chinese medicine.
West Indian Lemon Grass
West Indian lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is native to Ceylon and southern India, and is also cultivated in tropical regions throughout the world. West Indian lemon grass requires a soil pH of between 4.3 and 8.4. The plant's oil has some reported antimicrobial abilities, and acts as a depressant on the central nervous system. When used as a spice, West Indian lemon grass should be used in small amounts, as it is quite pungent, and all parts of the stalk can be used.
Australian Lemon Grass
Alternately called scented grass or Australian lemon-scented grass (Cymbopogon ambiguus), Australian lemon grass grows throughout most of Australia, with the exception of the cooler areas. Like the other lemon grass plants, this plant emits a lemon-like citrus odor when cut or crushed, and is adaptable to different soil types. Australian lemon grass is often used in landscaping as ground cover or in places where watering is difficult. The plant grows to about 3 feet in height, and is drought- and frost-resistant.
Tags: East Indian, lemon grass, lemon grass, West Indian, East Indian lemon, Indian lemon grass