Citronella grass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon nardus, is a popular choice for gardens and outdoor spaces due to its strong citrus-like fragrance that acts as a natural insect repellent. However, when it comes to determining whether citronella grass is invasive or not, it’s important to understand the characteristics and growth habits of this plant.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that citronella grass is not considered an invasive grass in the traditional sense. Invasive plants are those that have the ability to aggressively spread and outcompete native vegetation, often causing harm to the local ecosystem. While citronella grass can be quite vigorous in its growth, it does not have invasive tendencies in terms of spreading through underground rhizomes like some other grass species.
Instead, citronella grass is an aggressive bunch grass, meaning it grows in clumps and can become quite tall if left unchecked. This can give the appearance of invasiveness, especially in garden settings where it may outgrow and shade other plants that prefer full sun. It’s important to consider this aggressive growth habit when deciding where to plant citronella grass in your garden.
One way to control the growth of citronella grass and prevent it from becoming overwhelming is to plant it in containers or use barriers such as edging to contain its spread. This will help to prevent it from encroaching on other plants or areas of the garden where it may not be desired.
In my personal experience, I have found that citronella grass can indeed grow quite tall and lush if given the right conditions. I planted it in a sunny spot in my garden and it quickly established itself, reaching a height of over three feet within a few months. While I enjoyed the fragrance and the added insect-repelling benefits, I had to regularly trim it back to prevent it from shading out other plants nearby.
To summarize, citronella grass is not considered invasive due to its lack of rhizome spreading. However, it is an aggressive bunch grass that can grow tall and potentially shade out other plants if not properly managed. By planting it in containers or using barriers, you can control its growth and enjoy the benefits of its insect-repelling properties without causing harm to your garden.
