Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) has become a favorite of American gardeners, althought it is best known for providing lemon flavoring to Asian cuisine. A versatile herb, slices of fresh stalks are added to salads, soups, stews, stir fries, and seafood dishes (remove the leaves just before serving). Leaves can also be dried to make teas.
Lemon Grass is easy to grow and is especially nice to plant along paths and walkways where the leaves release their fragrance when brushed by people walking by. Out in the garden, it forms a loose, vase-shaped clump to 6in across in its first year. Treat as an annual in colder climates, or cut back plants and bring them indoors before frost to overwinter. For more information on care, click "GROWING GUIDE" at left.
