• Department of Export Agriculture
    Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation

Introduction & Importance

Citronella is a perennial grass cultivated for its essential oil, widely used in perfumery, soaps, and insect repellents.

Uses

  • Oil: Used in mosquito repellents, candles, and cosmetics.
  • By-products: Residues used as mulch or organic manure.

Growing Areas

Southern and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka, especially Galle, Matara, and Kurunegala.


Climate & Soil Requirements

  • Altitude: Sea level to 600 m.
  • Temperature: 20–32°C.
  • Rainfall: 1,200–2,500 mm.
  • Soil: Light, well-drained soils.


Varieties

  • C. nardus (Ceylon citronella)
  • C. winterianus (Java citronella) – higher oil yield.

Crop Management

  • Propagated by slips.
  • Harvested every 3–4 months after establishment.


Harvesting & Post-Harvest

  • Leaves cut and distilled by steam to extract oil.

DEA Support

Provides distillation training and improved planting stock.