is citronella a perennial

2 min read 15-01-2025

Citronella's delightful lemony scent and mosquito-repelling properties make it a popular choice for gardens. But is citronella a perennial, meaning it returns year after year? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. It depends largely on the specific type of plant you're referring to and your climate.

What is Citronella?

Before we delve into the perennial question, let's clarify what "citronella" refers to. The term often evokes the familiar scent of mosquito repellents. However, this scent comes from essential oils extracted from several plants, most notably Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus. These are grasses, not the flowering plants often called "citronella plants" in garden centers.

These Cymbopogon species are generally tropical or subtropical perennials in their native habitats. However, their hardiness varies, and they’re not reliably perennial in all climates. In areas with frost, they’re usually treated as annuals.

Citronella Plants Commonly Sold: Are They Perennials?

Garden centers frequently sell plants labeled "citronella" for their mosquito-repelling properties. These are often species from the genus Pelargonium (geraniums) or Cymbopogon species. The Pelargonium citronella plants are the ones you're more likely to see in a garden setting.

Pelargonium Citronella Geraniums: These are the most common "citronella plants" sold. These are typically tender perennials, meaning they can survive mild winters in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates (zones below 9), they are usually grown as annuals or brought indoors during winter.

**Is Pelargonium Citronella a Perennial Where I Live?**

This depends on your hardiness zone. To determine if your Pelargonium citronella will survive winter outdoors, check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If your zone is below 9, you'll likely need to treat it as an annual or overwinter it indoors.

Overwintering Citronella Geraniums:

If you live in a colder climate, you can overwinter your citronella geranium:

Cut back: Trim the plant back to a manageable size in the fall.
Potting: Pot the plant before the first frost.
Indoor care: Place in a sunny location with temperatures above 50°F (10°C). Water sparingly.

Cymbopogon Citronella Grasses: Perennial or Annual?

The true Cymbopogon citronella grasses are more challenging to grow outside of tropical and subtropical regions. They require warm temperatures and consistent moisture. While technically perennials in suitable climates, they're less likely to survive winters in temperate zones than the Pelargonium citronella plants.

Maintaining Your Citronella Plants

Regardless of whether your citronella plant is a perennial or annual in your region, proper care will maximize its lifespan and effectiveness:

Sunlight: Plant in full sun for optimal growth.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pest and disease control: Monitor for common plant pests and diseases.

Conclusion: Is Citronella a Perennial? It Depends!

The answer to the question "Is citronella a perennial?" depends heavily on the species and your climate. The commonly sold Pelargonium citronella geraniums are tender perennials that may survive mild winters, while the true Cymbopogon citronella grasses are primarily grown as annuals in temperate zones. Always check your local hardiness zone and consider overwintering options for cold climates. With the right care, you can enjoy the benefits and beautiful scent of citronella for many years.