Native Lemon Scented Grass

Cymbopogan ambiguus

C. ambiguus needs a sunny position. It can tolerate extreme dryness once established. Propagation is by division of clumps or from seed.

This Lemon Grass is one of 1300 different types of Australian grasses. It is very adaptable to different types of soil. It is drought and frost hardy, but it does need full sun. It's popularity is growing, and it is commonly used by landscape gardeners and home gardeners alike.

When the foliage is crushed it releases a strong lemon or citrus odour, and it has also been used as a medicinal herb.

If planted in spring it should flower in their first year. Grows to about 90 cm high and can be cut back to regenerate new foliage growth in spring. Although drought resistant they will develop a better appearance if they are given regular water.

Grasses have much greater visual impact when they are planted in quantity, and can be used as a ground cover, a rockery plant or added amongst low shrubbery or mass planted as swathes in a landscape or in places where it is difficult to water.

It grows widely throughout Australia except in the cool temperate regions. Even in the cooler areas, it can be grow with protection.