Citronella

This aromatic plant, native to the lush tropical climates of Asia, is famed for its mosquito-repellent properties and relaxing citrus scent.

This low-maintenance plant grows in long, spiky leaves that can reach up to 2.5 metres and resemble lemongrass. To tell them apart, citronella leaves are usually larger, thicker, and darker green. However, the most distinctive difference is the reddish tint of citronella stems. This is where the Khmer name for the plant comes from, ស្លឹកគ្រៃក្រហម, which directly translates to “red lemongrass”.

Our Forest Garden boasts them in abundance, and the soil greatly benefits from their roots, which prevent erosion and preserve its fertility and richness.

Citronella is also known to repel mosquitoes by interfering with their olfactory receptors and masking the scents they seek. In addition to being a natural insecticide, citronella grass has traditionally been used in medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.