Description
Appearance and Origin
Cedron capi’i (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial herbaceous plant from the grass family (Poaceae). This plant is known for its citrusy aroma and its use in the culinary world and traditional medicine.
Growth and Appearance
It grows in clumps and forms dense tufts with long, narrow leaves that are slightly curved at the ends. The leaves can grow up to one meter in length and are green with a bluish tint. The stems are cylindrical and can reach a height of about 1.5 to 2 meters. The plant spreads through rhizomes, forming larger clumps.
Cultivation and Care
For cultivation, Cedron capi’i requires a sunny location with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It does not tolerate waterlogging and requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. Regular pruning of the leaves promotes the growth of new shoots and facilitates harvesting. Lemongrass can be grown both in garden beds and in pots or containers, provided that the container is large enough to support root growth.
Flowering Period
Lemongrass rarely flowers in temperate climates and is generally cultivated for its leaves, prized for their intense lemon flavor and aroma. The flowers are clustered and have a green to brown color.
Pollination
Pollination is carried out by the wind, as it is a wind-pollinated plant. The flowers produce abundant pollen that is dispersed by the wind to enable pollination. In some cases, insects such as bees and butterflies can also contribute to pollen transport if conditions allow.
