The citronella plant is a popular outdoor addition prized for its distinct citrus scent. It is often sought for its refreshing aroma and ease of cultivation in containers or garden beds during the warm season. This guide simplifies the purchasing process by identifying reliable sources and clarifying the different varieties available.
Where to Buy Citronella Plants
Purchasing the plant requires knowing where to look, as availability is often tied to the growing season. Large retailers, including major home improvement and big-box stores, are the most accessible option for many buyers. These locations typically stock plants seasonally, with the greatest availability appearing in late spring and early summer after the danger of the last frost has passed.
For superior plant health and a wider selection, local and independent nurseries are an excellent alternative. These specialized vendors often provide better-established plants and staff expertise regarding regional growing conditions and specific cultivars. To avoid a wasted trip, call ahead to confirm stock, especially if you are looking for a less common variety.
Online vendors provide another reliable route, focusing on specialized growers who ship young plants directly to your door. These mail-order nurseries are useful for sourcing the true citronella grass or unique Pelargonium cultivars that may not be available locally. When buying online, ensure the vendor is reputable and check their shipping schedule, as live plants require careful transit and are often shipped only at specific times of the year.
Understanding the Types of Citronella Plants
A significant point of confusion for buyers is that the name “citronella plant” refers to two distinct species, each with different uses and appearances. The most common plant sold in retail stores is the scented geranium, botanically known as Pelargonium citrosum or Pelargonium graveolens ‘Citrosa’. This plant features attractive, lacy foliage and is generally the one sold as the “mosquito plant” due to its powerful lemon-like aroma.
The true source of commercial citronella oil, however, is a tropical grass belonging to the genus Cymbopogon, specifically Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus. This variety is a thin, reedy, clumping grass that is less common in general garden centers and is more often found through specialized herb growers or online sources. While both plants release a citrusy fragrance when their leaves are bruised or rubbed, the grass is the plant used for commercial steam distillation to extract the oil.
Essential Care Tips After Purchase
Providing the correct environment is necessary for the plant’s success after purchase. Both the Pelargonium and Cymbopogon varieties thrive in sunny conditions and should receive a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent the foliage from scorching, especially when grown in containers.
Proper watering requires keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before irrigating again, which helps ensure the roots receive adequate oxygen.
Because both types are tender perennials or tropical grasses, they are not tolerant of freezing temperatures. If you live outside of USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11, you must plan to overwinter your plant indoors. Before the first frost arrives, typically when nighttime temperatures consistently fall below 45°F, the plant should be potted up or moved to a sunny indoor location.