Palmarosa – 10 Seeds

Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii var. motia) is a species of grass in the genus Cymbopogon (lemongrasses) native to South East Asia, especially India, and is cultivated throughout India for its aromatic oil. It is also known as Indian geranium, gingergrass, rosha, and rosha grass. The essential oil of this plant, which contains the chemical compound geraniol, is valued for its scent and for traditional medicinal and household uses.

It is a perennial grass with fragrant leaves, long slender stems and terminal flowering tops. It is drought hardy and can grow to a height of 1.5 to 2.5m. It has a shallow root system.

Palmerosa Medicinal Benefits

• The plant has antiseptic, antiviral, and antibacterial qualities.
• It is beneficial for the digestive system and the respiratory system.
• Helps relieve stress, exhaustion and muscle pain.

Growing Palmarosa

Indoor Sowing: Spring.

Direct Sowing: Spring and Summer.

• Direct sow the seeds or else start the seeds in a nursery tray.
• Sow the seeds on top of moist, well firmed down potting soil mixed with some sand. Do not cover the seeds with soil.
• Gently water the seeds with a spray bottle.
• Maintain a warm and humid environment with temperatures around 29 – 35°C and provide bright, indirect sunlight.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Germination can take very long, ranging from a 6 weeks to a few months, so patience is required.
• Transplant the seedlings once they reach a height of about 15cm.
• Transplant into well draining soil.
• Grow in full sun and keep watered until established.