There are indeed dissimilar variety of citronella plant life . The two most commonly known case are Citronella Grass ( Cymbopogon nardus or C. winterianus ) and Citronella Geranium ( Pelargonium ‘ Citronella ’ ) . These flora have distinct characteristics and manipulation in gardening and landscaping .

1 . Citronella Grass : Also known as Mosquito Grass , Citronella Grass is a glob - forming perennial skunk . It is often grown as an yearly in cold-blooded zones where it is not sturdy . This grass is well - known for its strong lemony fragrance , which is believed to repel mosquitoes and other louse . It grows in slow clumps and can reach a height of 5 to 6 feet . The leave of Citronella Grass are farseeing , narrow-minded , and aromatic . They are often used in the production of citronella oil , which is used in candle , worm repellents , and other product .

2 . Citronella Geranium : Unlike Citronella Grass , Citronella Geranium is not a dead on target citronella plant . It is in reality a variety of scented geranium ( Pelargonium ) that is commonly referred to as Citronella . This flora has a potent lemony smell similar to Citronella Grass , hence the name . Citronella Geranium is a recurrent plant that can be grown in container or in the ground . It has attractive , deep lobed leaves and grow diminished , pinkish - regal bloom . While it may have some mosquito - repellent properties , it is not as effective as Citronella Grass .

Both Citronella Grass and Citronella Geranium can be used in the garden or landscape to help discourage mosquitoes and make a pleasant fragrance . Here are some summit for spring up and using these plants :

– Growing conditions : Citronella Grass prefer full Dominicus and well - draining soil . It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers slightly acid stipulation . Citronella Geranium also thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade . It prefers well - drain soil and regular tearing .

– Planting : Citronella Grass can be develop from seeds , but it is more commonly propagated through partition or transplantation . It is best to plant it in spring after the danger of hoarfrost has pass on . Citronella Geranium can be grown from seeds or cuttings . Start seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last frost particular date or take stem cuttings in spring or summertime .

– sustenance : Both plants require steady lachrymation , specially during hot and dry periods . Citronella Grass may benefit from occasional fecundation to promote tidy increase . absent any dead or yellow leaf to maintain the plant ’s visual aspect .

– habit : Citronella Grass is often used in garden and landscapes as a margin flora , in container , or as a born mosquito repellent . The leaves can be crush and rubbed on the cutis to provide some protection against mosquitoes . Citronella Geranium is normally used in containers , hang basketful , or as a border plant . Its fragrant leaves can be used in preparation , mixture , or to make herbal teas .

In my personal experience , I have grown both Citronella Grass and Citronella Geranium in my garden . The Citronella Grass was a great addition to my out-of-door seating room area as it serve keep mosquitoes at bay . I loved the overbold lemony olfactory property it emitted when brushed against . The Citronella Geranium , on the other hand , added a beautiful spot to my terrace with its attractive leafage and frail flowers . While it did n’t completely reject mosquitoes , it did create a pleasant ambiance and added fragrance to the air .

There are unlike form of citronella plants , namely Citronella Grass and Citronella Geranium . Each has its own unequalled characteristics and uses in horticulture and landscaping . Whether you pick out to develop Citronella Grass for its mosquito - repellant properties or Citronella Geranium for its scent and ornamental note value , both can be wonderful improver to your outdoor space .

Caroline Bates