Cymbopogon

Cymbopogon also known as lemongrass is a genus of about 55 species of grasses, native to warm temperate and tropical regions of the Old World and Oceania. It is a tall perennial grass. Common names include lemon grass, lemongrass, barbed wire grass, silky heads, citronella grass, cha de Dartigalongue, fever grass, tanglad, hierba Luisa, or gavati chahapati, amongst many others.

Description

Cymbopogon species are commonly cultivated as culinary and medicinal herbs because of their scent, resembling that of lemons (Citrus limon). The name cymbopogon derives from the Greek words kymbe (κύμβη, 'boat') and pogon (πώγων, 'beard') which mean that in most species, the hairy spikelet looks as if it is a boat.

Uses

Cymbopogon is used for cooking, tea, and essential oils. It is also used in traditional medicine, especially in India, for treating digestive issues and fever.

Species

There are many species of Cymbopogon, including Cymbopogon citratus (commonly known as West Indian or Madagascar lemongrass), Cymbopogon flexuosus (East Indian lemongrass), Cymbopogon martinii (palmarosa), Cymbopogon nardus (citronella grass), and Cymbopogon winterianus (Javanese citronella grass).

Cultivation

Cymbopogon is grown in tropical regions and cannot tolerate cold temperatures. It requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is propagated by dividing the root clumps.

See also

• Lemon
• Herbs
• Traditional medicine
• Essential oil

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