Cymbopogon citratus
Light: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade helps prevent scorching in Phoenix’s intense summer heat.
Water: Water deeply and regularly during hot weather, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering substantially in winter; avoid soggy soil.
Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost. Tolerates sandy soil but grows best with consistent moisture and moderate fertility.
Mature size: Typically 3–5 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide; size varies by species and growing conditions.
Bloom: Culinary lemongrass rarely blooms in cultivation; other Cymbopogon species may flower in late summer or fall.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen in frost-free conditions; foliage may brown or die back during Zone 9b freezes.
Growth rate: Fast during warm weather with adequate water and nutrients.