Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus)

Cymbopogon nardus, citronella grass, is the source of Ceylon citronella oil, the classic scent of insect-repellent candles and sprays. It is a tall, clumping grass from tropical Asia grown mainly in Sri Lanka. Its oil repels mosquitoes for a short time, though less effectively than standard repellents.

Botanical name: Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle
Family: Poaceae
Tamil: Citronella
Hindi: Citronella
Parts used: Leaf, Distilled oil
Habit: Citronella; English lemon grass is a shop word
Last updated: 2026-10-30

How to recognise Citronella grass

It is a tall, dense perennial grass with long, narrow leaves that smell sharp and lemony when crushed, harsher than lemongrass.

Clumps can reach two metres, with leaves that are coarser and stiffer than lemongrass.

Its stems are reddish at the base in many plants.

It flowers with tall, branched flower heads.

Java citronella, Cymbopogon winterianus, is the other main citronella oil grass. Kitchen lemongrass is Cymbopogon citratus.

Traditional use of Citronella grass

Sri Lankan oil trade

Citronella oil has been distilled in southern Sri Lanka for export since the nineteenth century.

Sri Lankan trade history

Household

Leaves are used to repel insects and scent homes.

Household practice

Modern notes on Citronella grass

Studies show citronella oil repels mosquitoes, but its protection fades within about an hour, much faster than DEET or picaridin.

The main scent compounds are citronellal, geraniol and citronellol.

Citronella grass safety

Do not rely on citronella alone where malaria or dengue is a risk. Use a proven repellent and nets. Dilute the oil before putting it on skin.

Ecology and sourcing

It is native to tropical Asia and grown commercially mainly in Sri Lanka.

Like other Cymbopogon grasses it grows in poor soils and tolerates drought.

It is harvested several times a year for distillation.

Gardeners grow it around homes for the scent, though a living plant repels few mosquitoes on its own.

Related plants

Also in Poaceae

Questions about Citronella grass

Is Citronella grass lemongrass?

It is a close relative, grown for oil rather than cooking.

What older names does Cymbopogon nardus go by?

Andropogon nardus.

Does Citronella grass stop mosquito bites?

Only briefly. Proven repellents protect much longer.

Does a citronella plant in a pot keep mosquitoes away?

Not much. The oil has to be released and applied to work, and even then it fades quickly.

Sources

Educational page about a plant. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell. Traditional use is historical. If you need care, ask a licensed clinician. Questions: hello@meevamed.com.