Citronella

Cymbopogon nardus

Cymbopogon nardus, common name citronella grass, is a species of perennial aromatic plant from the family Poaceae, originating in tropical Asia. C. nardus cannot be eaten because of its unpalatable nature and is an invasive species that renders pastureland useless, since cattle will starve even in its abundance.

Citronella oil

Citronella oil is an essential oil obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon (lemongrass). The oil is used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such as citronellal, citronellol, and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use in soap, candles and incense, perfumery, cosmetic, and flavouring industries throughout the world.

Citronella (genus)

Citronella is a genus of trees and shrubs in the family Cardiopteridaceae described as a genus in 1832. It is native to tropical regions of South and Central America, insular Southeast Asia, Australia, and islands of the western Pacific. The genus was formerly treated as belonging to the family Icacinaceae.

citronella

Noun

1. A tropical Asian grass, Cymbopogon nardus, that has citrus-scented leaves.
2. An essential oil obtained from this plant, often used as an insect repellent.