Lemongrass is a long, perennial grass grown in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia and Africa. Its leaves and oil can be used in food, tea and medicine production.
Using lemongrass in these particular ways has many health benefits, such as pain relief, fever reduction, and a potent antioxidant. However, there are some drawbacks when used incorrectly, like allergic reactions via topical use, increased amylase, increased bilirubin and toxic alveolitis.
But, do you know how tall does lemongrass grow?
Well, lemongrass can grow a whopping 3-5 ft (0.9-1.5m) in clumps, so maintaining them at a desired height and radius is important.
In this article, we’ll look at all the factors that affect growth and the methods of controlling it. Sound good? Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Physical Characteristics of Lemon Grass
The humble lemongrass stalk has been consumed and used from as far back as the 17th century. The stalks have a woody texture and are pale green. They are thinner at the top and become more bulbous at the base, where the color fades into a lighter green to pale yellow.
The stalks look a little like a thicker, woody version of a green/spring onion. They have long, green leaves that taper upwards along the edges. The leaf blades are narrow and range from blue-green to gold in color. The edges are considerably sharp and contain small flowers on the stalk.
They can be used either whole, chopped, or even smashed into a paste in food. They produce a blended lemon, ginger and flower flavor and have the aroma of a sharp lemon (hence the name).
Once in a pulverized form, they can be filtered in teas, and the oils are used in a range of medical and cosmetic products such as soaps, deodorants, topical creams, etc.
Growth of Lemon Grass
Given the origin of this aromatic herbs growth, they are used to and thrive best in hot and humid climates. They are drought tolerant and prefer being grown in areas with at least half a day of full direct sun.
Lemon grass is quite picky with its soil type as it needs to be rich, fertile, have adequate drainage, and be in the pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. They cannot tolerate clay soils that retain water.
However, it can be easily amended by mixing in gypsum or something similar if necessary. The nitrogen requirements for lemongrass are quite similar to many other grass species. They need the bulk of their nutrients during the summer growth periods.
It’s recommended to use a half-strength solution of a balanced soluble fertilizer once weekly from early to late summer. When it comes to water, the best method is to keep the soil slightly moist at all times. Try not to soak it, as the roots won’t tolerate excess water.
This should allow the frequency every 2-3 days, depending on the growing environment. Check daily regardless because the climate can affect the moisture content. Container grown lemon grass may demand slightly more water, especially during the summer.
How Tall Does Lemongrass Grow?
Like any other plant, the growing conditions in which Lemongrass grows will determine how tall it can get. These plants can grow as tall as 5 ft (1.5 m). However, the average height is more around the 3 ft (0.9 m) range. Lemongrass cannot be compared to any other herb as far as its size is concerned.
It looks quite similar to a salad onion (green, spring onion) or chives, but the characteristics are vastly different. A store-bought stalk of lemongrass is around the same size as potted cilantro, parsley or rosemary. Again, the characteristics are very different.
One thing to remember when growing lemongrass is that it spreads pretty fast, so it needs to be controlled and routinely maintained. Leaving it alone to grow can result in a shorter, thinner stalk instead of the more robust, long stalks.
How fast does lemongrass grow?
Regardless of whether the lemongrass seedlings are started in containers or a garden bed, they can grow to full size in as little as 75-100 days.
Once they reach maturity, they can be easily manicured to a desired width and height. It is possible to speed up the process by dividing the stalks every few years.
This will ensure they multiply and spread much like traditional backyard turf. Being a perennial, it will grow every year as long as it is well maintained and correctly pruned. Once the plants have established themselves, they will propagate all by themselves; you will notice new plants that begin to grow beside the existing stalks.
Factors affecting the height of Lemon Grass
Lemongrass is one of the easiest herbs to grow and maintain. However, several factors can affect the growth rate and subsequent results. These factors include:
Climate
Unfavorable climates can cause major problems for almost any growing organism; lemongrass is no different. This aromatic culinary herb thrives best in both tropical and subtropical climates. They like it hot with full access to the sun. Anything over a minimum of 40°F (5°C) is ideal.
However, when the mercury drops below 15F (-9C), these types of plants will freeze to death. If you’re growing lemongrass in a location that may be exposed to cold winters, it’s much better to have them growing in containers. That way, they can be moved indoors when the chill starts to roll in.
Soil Type
Soil type is extremely important for lemongrass. However, they can tolerate a range of soils. They prefer a well-draining, sandy blend rich in nitrogen and free of any perennial weeds that can interrupt growth. They cannot tolerate clay or any other water retentive materials.
Adding amendments such as gypsum can improve clay type soils if necessary. If the wrong soil type is used, the lemongrass will struggle to establish its roots and prevent it from growing.
Fertilization and Watering
Like many other grass species, lemongrass requires a water soluble fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen. Manure tea is a formidable option that can add beneficial trace elements. Otherwise, using a high nitrogen, water soluble fertilizer weekly during summer will encourage exponential growth.
During the rest of the year, one dose per month is ample. Fertilization is key to ensuring full, lush growth. Watering lemongrass is a simple task. Keep it slightly moist at all times.
Make sure to check daily and avoid letting the soil completely dry out. Furthermore, try applying the water in short, sharp bursts instead of soaking the soil. Without water, lemongrass won’t be able to grow to its full potential.
Age of the Plant
Simply put, younger, less mature plants are generally weaker and not as thick, meaning they cannot grow as tall. At the same time, mature plants are the opposite. The stems are thicker and stronger. Therefore they can grow much taller with a stable base.
As the stems age, it’s much easier to prune the tops and maintain the base, allowing them to grow even taller.
Pruning and maintenance
The best time to cut back any messy clumps is late in the winter, as this will allow them to shoot back stronger when spring rolls in. If the growing location gets extremely cold, then it’s better to prune as the winter chill starts to subside.
Lemongrass can be cut down to as little as 3 ft and still flourish, so don’t be scared to give it a good haircut to prepare for newer, stronger growth. As long as you keep the lower portions of the stalks growing, they will keep their base strength, allowing the upper portions to grow much taller.
How to control the height of Lemon Grass?
Lemongrass can grow out of control and bushy if left to fend for itself. Therefore, controlling its height is important for those who want a clean look. Controlling the height will also encourage newer growth and increase the base strength of the lower stalks.
One of the simplest methods to keep your lemongrass plant in check is using it often. As you use it, trim it evenly, so it continues to grow uniformly. Otherwise, controlling the height effectively can be achieved by doing the following:
- Decide what you want your lemongrass plant(s) to look like. You may want a low line garden requiring smaller, bushier plants. Or you might want taller, thick bushes that act as a privacy screen.
- Get yourself a decent pair of sterilized gardening shears or scissors. Ensure they are good quality because some plant matter can be tough to cut through.
- When it comes to shaping, start with the outsides first. Trim away any stems of leaves that are either dead, decaying or wilting. These can be cut down to the lowest green point. Most decaying parts will be brown and possibly mushy. It’s best to eliminate this before any real shaping can begin.
- Once satisfied with the outer shape, start again at the highest point and trim away anything considered too high for your desired end result. Lemongrass grows pretty fast. A plant can reach a size of up to 3-5 ft tall and 2 ft wide in a single growing season. So don’t be scared to trim anything that doesn’t suit your look.
There’s not too much else to it. Lemongrass should only be cut back hard late in the winter to encourage new growth in spring. Otherwise, it can be shaped all through its growing season without problems.
Uses of Lemon Grass
The most common use for lemon grass is within foods and beverages. Many Southeast Asian dishes use it to add a sharp zesty flavor, especially Thai and Vietnamese. It’s a key ingredient in soups, salads, curries and even roasted meats. The leaves are also used in herbal teas and can be chopped fresh and added to cocktails.
Lemongrass is also a common ingredient in certain natural medicines and is known to help treat stomach problems and nervous disorders when taken internally.
Furthermore, it is recommended to help counteract many other health issues, such as anxiety relief, lowering cholesterol, pain relief, prevention of infection, etc.
These come in the form of symptoms that include diarrhea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, fever, the flu, and even headaches. The most common usage is via herbal tea or applied topically.
Another handy method of usage is in the manufacturing industry, where fragrances in deodorants, soaps, and cosmetics are made. Lastly, this aromatic wonder herb can help create vitamin A and natural citral.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Lemongrass Easy To Grow?
Lemongrass is extremely easy to grow and maintain. The only thing to remember is to protect it from the cold and keep its soil moist without overwatering. It can be consistently trimmed and used as it grows. It should be hard pruned down to a 3rd of its height late in the winter to encourage new growth in the springtime.
How Long Does Lemongrass Last?
Lemongrass is a perennial, so it will grow every year as long as it is cared for and maintained. Fresh lemongrass can last for around 10-14 days if stored correctly.
Does lemongrass need sun or shade?
Lemongrass thrives best when grown in full sun. It can grow in partial shade in warmer, tropical climates but won’t spread and climb as fast as in sunny conditions. They do not tolerate colder climates.
Conclusion:
Lemongrass can grow up to 3-5 ft (0.9-1.5m) when optimal conditions are provided. They thrive best in full sun and are heat tolerant. Maintaining a lemongrass bush via consistent pruning is essential for keeping a uniform shape and allowing the base stalks to grow enough strength to support the upper leaves.
This type of herb can be used as a low lying border plant or a taller, more lush privacy screening plant. Aim to uphold a regular nitrogen-rich fertilizer schedule and keep the soil always moist without soaking.
All of these points will encourage healthy, happy lemongrass for many years to come. We hope that this guide has been helpful. You can read about similar topics here on our website. Check back again soon for more.
