Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass

With its long green leaves and powerful citrus scent, lemongrass is a staple aromatic plant in tropical gardens. Widely found in the Caribbean, it is prized both for its culinary uses and for preparing traditional herbal teas.

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Nos espèces

Poaceae

Lemongrass

Nom scientifique :

Cymbopogon citratus

Nom vernaculaire :

Lemongrass

Carte d’identité
de l’espèce

Lemongrass is a large perennial grass that forms dense clumps of long, narrow, drooping leaves. When crushed, they immediately release their characteristic citrus fragrance, largely due to their high citral content. It belongs to the Poaceae family, the same as grasses and cereals.

Famille :

Poaceae

Origine géographique :

Tropical Asia

Taille :

Approximately 1 to 2 meters

Floraison :

September to February

Habitat :

Habitat: Warm, sunny tropical regions with well-drained soil

Classe :

Liliopsida (Monocots)

Ordre :

Poales

A staple aromatic plant in the Caribbean

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is easily recognizable by its long, ribbon-like leaves that release a strong citrus scent as soon as they are crushed. Cultivated in many tropical regions, it holds a special place in Creole gardens and traditional Caribbean practices.

In Guadeloupe, its leaves are commonly used to prepare infusions and herbal teas. Their fresh, lemony fragrance makes them perfect for drinking on their own or blended with other aromatic plants. Lemongrass is also a kitchen staple, used to flavor broths, sauces, and various dishes. In other tropical cuisines, particularly in Southeast Asia, the fleshy base of the stalks is a widely used aromatic.

Its characteristic scent comes from its essential oil, which is particularly rich in citralLemongrass is also well-known for its traditional use as a mosquito repellent. Its essential oil is a common ingredient in various repellent products, although simply having a lemongrass plant in your garden is not enough on its own to protect you from bites.

At the Jardin de Valombreuse, lemongrass offers a glimpse into another facet of tropical vegetation: plants whose scents are an integral part of Caribbean cuisine and traditions. It can be compared to the West Indian Bay leaf, another iconic aromatic plant of the Caribbean, or theAtoumo, whose leaves are also traditionally prepared as an infusion.

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