lemongrass tea plant

Why Grow Lemongrass Tea Plant?

Cymbopogon citratus, known as the lemongrass tea plant, is native to warm regions but thrives in many New Zealand microclimates. It forms dense tussocks of bright green leaves, bringing a tropical touch to borders, containers, or even edible landscapes. Known for its medicinal properties, lemongrass tea is a favourite for calming teas, aiding digestion, and infusing a zesty flavour into curries, stir-fries, and desserts.

Lemongrass is an ideal companion for gardeners who love multi-purpose plants. Harvest fresh leaves for brewing homemade lemongrass tea or dry them for use year-round. The aromatic foliage also helps deter some garden pests, making it a natural, attractive option for eco-friendly gardeners.

Planting and Care for Lemongrass

The lemongrass tea plant prefers a sunny, sheltered position and free-draining soil, similar to other ornamental and grassy plants. Regular watering and occasional feeding encourage lush, vigorous growth, although established plants are remarkably adaptable and drought-tolerant. In colder regions, the lemongrass tea plant may die back in winter but will regrow from its base in spring—mulch well to protect the roots from frost.

This low-maintenance grass pairs beautifully with other ornamental grasses. Consider combining it with structural varieties like Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge) for a wetland-inspired look, or add texture with Liriope 'Elmarco' and Lomandra Long John Silver. For pond or damp margins, the fine blades of Eleocharis acuta (Spike Rush) make a complementary backdrop. Even flowering companions like Armeria 'Pink Petite' (Thrift) look stunning alongside your lemongrass tea plant, adding delicate pops of colour throughout the year.

How to Harvest and Use Your Lemongrass

To harvest, simply snip the outer stems of your lemongrass tea plant close to the base, leaving the inner shoots to continue growing. The stalks and leaves can be used fresh or dried. For tea, bruise a few fresh leaves and steep in boiling water to release their uplifting, lemony aroma—delicious on its own or blended with ginger or green tea. Lemongrass also infuses beautifully into syrups and salad dressings, while the tender bases are a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Add Lemongrass to Your New Zealand Garden

Robust, beautiful, and bursting with uses, the lemongrass tea plant is a must-have for gardeners seeking edible benefits and visual interest in equal measure. From a sunny corner in your vegetable patch to an exotic planting with grasses such as Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge) or Liriope 'Elmarco', lemongrass brings lasting zest to your garden and kitchen alike.