East Indian Lemongrass Seeds (Cymbopogon flexuosus) – Aromatic tropical grass valued for essential oils, teas, and natural pest control; thrives in warm, sunny gardens.

Minimum: 50+ Seeds

Bring the tropics to your garden with East Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) — a fragrant, fast-growing herb celebrated for its high essential oil content, culinary uses, and pest-repelling abilities. Native to India and Southeast Asia, this lush, clumping perennial grass thrives in warm, sunny climates, releasing a refreshing citrus aroma that naturally deters mosquitoes and other garden pests. Whether you’re cultivating it for tea, essential oils, cooking, or aromatherapy, lemongrass is a sustainable, multi-purpose addition to any garden or homestead.

🌞 Botanical Details

• Scientific Name: Cymbopogon flexuosus

• Common Names: East Indian Lemongrass, Cochin Grass, Malabar Grass

• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)

• Plant Type: Perennial in warm regions; annual in cooler climates

• Native Region: South and Southeast Asia

🌱 Growth & Cultivation

East Indian Lemongrass is a vigorous grower that forms dense, fountain-like clumps of narrow, arching leaves up to 4 feet tall. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, making it ideal for raised beds, herb gardens, and containers. In tropical or subtropical climates (Zones 9–11), lemongrass grows year-round; in temperate regions, it can be overwintered indoors or treated as an annual.

• Soil Requirements: Sandy or loamy, well-draining, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–7.0)

• Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily)

• Water: Moderate; water regularly but avoid waterlogging

• Temperature: Prefers 70–95°F (21–35°C); frost-sensitive

• Spacing: 24–36 inches apart for mature growth

• Maturity: Harvestable within 90–120 days after planting

🌾 How to Grow from Seed

1. Sow Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Press lightly into seed-starting mix—do not cover deeply, as light aids germination.

2. Germination: Maintain 70–85°F and keep soil moist; seeds typically germinate within 10–21 days.

3. Transplanting: Once seedlings are 4–6 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, transplant outdoors.

4. Maintenance: Trim back old leaves in spring to encourage new growth. Fertilize monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer for lush foliage.

🍵 Uses & Benefits

1. Culinary Uses

• Fresh or dried lemongrass stalks add zesty, citrusy flavor to soups, curries, stir-fries, and marinades.

• The lower stalk (bulb) is often bruised or chopped for cooking, while leaves can be steeped into lemongrass tea or infused into broths.

2. Medicinal & Wellness Uses

• Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for digestive support, fever reduction, and stress relief.

• Lemongrass tea is rich in antioxidants and has mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Steam-distilled essential oil contains citral, a compound valued for its uplifting aroma and natural cleansing power.

3. Essential Oil Production

• East Indian Lemongrass is a top choice for commercial oil extraction, producing oil used in aromatherapy, perfumery, soaps, and insect repellents.

• The oil has a strong lemon scent with earthy undertones, distinct from West Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus).

4. Natural Pest Control

• The aromatic oils naturally repel mosquitoes, ants, and fleas, making it a perfect border plant for outdoor seating areas.

• Crushed leaves can be rubbed on the skin as a light repellent or used in homemade sprays and candles.

5. Ornamental Value

• Its graceful, fountain-like leaves bring a tropical aesthetic to gardens and landscapes.

• Pairs beautifully with other sun-loving herbs like basil, rosemary, or Thai chili peppers.

🌿 Sustainable & Ecological Value

Lemongrass plays a role in soil stabilization, erosion control, and pollinator support when in bloom. It’s drought-tolerant once established, making it a valuable plant for eco-friendly and regenerative gardening.

🌼 Harvesting & Storage

• Harvest Time: Begin cutting stalks once they reach pencil thickness.

• Method: Cut the outer stalks at the base; leave the inner shoots to continue growing.

• Storage: Fresh stalks can be refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for long-term use. Dried leaves can be stored in airtight jars for teas or potpourri.

💡 Tips for Success

• Overwinter Indoors: In cooler climates, dig up a clump before frost and grow it in a bright window or greenhouse.

• Divide Every 2–3 Years: Keeps plants vigorous and prevents overcrowding.

• Companion Planting: Plant near tomatoes, peppers, or basil to deter pests and improve garden diversity.

🌎 A Cornerstone of Sustainable Living

East Indian Lemongrass stands at the crossroads of culinary, ecological, and economic value. Whether grown for its aroma, flavor, or sustainability benefits, it’s a cornerstone herb that connects home gardeners to the earth’s natural abundance.