Citronella vs Lemongrass: Which One Is Actually Useful? [ID0826]

Added: 2026-05-22

[00:00:02]Citronella and lemongrass are often mistaken for each other. They both belong to the same plant family. They both have long green blades, and they both release a sharp citrus-like aroma when crushed. But despite looking similar from a distance, [music] these plants are surprisingly different in appearance, purpose, flavor, and even chemistry.

[00:00:26]One is famous for repelling mosquitoes, while the other is a beloved ingredient in soups, teas, and cuisines across Asia. So, how did two plants that [music] seem almost identical become known for completely different uses?

[00:00:40]>> [music] >> And why do so many people still confuse them today? Let's explore right here on History of Simple Things.

[00:00:57]The story of citronella and lemongrass begins thousands of years ago in tropical Asia, where aromatic grasses were prized for their medicinal and culinary value. Lemongrass has deep roots in ancient Southeast Asian cooking and herbal medicine, especially in countries like Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines. Traditional healers used it to ease digestion, reduce fever, and create fragrant teas.

[00:01:27]Citronella, meanwhile, became famous for its powerful scent and insect-repelling properties. During the colonial era, citronella oil was exported around the world and quickly gained popularity as a natural mosquito deterrent. By the late 19th century, citronella candles, sprays, and oils were being marketed globally. Although both plants belong to the Cymbopogon genus, humans eventually gave them very different roles. One ended up in kitchens and recipes, while the other became associated with patios, campsites, and bug repellents.

[00:02:10]At first glance, citronella and lemongrass can appear nearly identical, but there are noticeable differences once you know what to look for.

[00:02:19]Lemongrass usually has lighter green stalks with thick bulb-like bases that resemble oversized green onions. These stalks are the prized edible portion used in cooking. Citronella, on the other hand, tends to grow in wider clumps with darker, rougher leaves and lacks the thick edible stalks that make lemongrass so recognizable.

[00:02:44]If you crush the leaves, the smell also reveals important clues. Lemongrass produces a fresh, clean, lemony scent that many people associate with food or tea. Citronella smells stronger, sharper, and more medicinal, almost like a concentrated essential oil. The confusion often happens because both plants contain citronellol and other aromatic compounds that create citrus-like fragrances, but the balance of those chemicals differs significantly.

[00:03:22]One of the biggest differences between the two plants is how humans use them.

[00:03:27]Lemongrass is primarily a culinary herb.

[00:03:31]It is a staple ingredient in soups like Thai Tom Yum, curries, marinades, and herbal drinks. Chefs value it because it adds a bright citrus flavor without the acidity of actual lemons. It pairs beautifully with coconut milk, chili, garlic, and ginger.

[00:03:50]Beyond cooking, lemongrass is also used in herbal medicine and aromatherapy.

[00:03:56]Some people drink lemongrass tea to relax, aid digestion, or soothe colds.

[00:04:02]Citronella, however, is rarely eaten.

[00:04:05]Its taste is considered too harsh and bitter for culinary use. Instead, citronella is famous for producing essential oils used in candles, sprays, soaps, and insect repellents. Mosquitoes dislike the strong aroma because it masks the scents that normally attract them to humans. That is why citronella became one of the world's most recognizable natural pest control plants.

[00:04:34]Another interesting difference lies in their chemistry.

[00:04:38]Lemongrass contains compounds like citral, which gives it its signature fresh lemon aroma and flavor.

[00:04:46]Citral is widely used in perfumes, cleaning products, and food flavorings.

[00:04:52]Citronella, meanwhile, contains higher levels of citronellal and citronellol, chemicals especially valued in insect-repelling products.

[00:05:02]Scientists have studied these compounds for decades because of their ability to confuse insect sensory systems. However, citronella is not a magical shield against mosquitoes. Many people assume simply placing a citronella plant nearby will completely eliminate bugs, but its effectiveness is limited unless the oils are released into the air through crushing, burning, or diffusing.

[00:05:31]Even so, citronella remains one of the most popular plant-based insect repellents in the world because people prefer its natural image over synthetic chemicals.

[00:05:46]Growing these plants also reveals important distinctions.

[00:05:51]Lemongrass is commonly cultivated for food production and thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil.

[00:05:59]Gardeners often grow it in containers or backyard herb gardens because it is relatively easy to maintain. Citronella grass also enjoys tropical conditions but tends to grow larger and wilder.

[00:06:13]Some people buy plants labeled citronella expecting miracle mosquito protection only to discover they purchased scented geraniums marketed under misleading names.

[00:06:26]True citronella grass belongs to the Cymbopogon genus while citronella geraniums are entirely different plants bred to mimic the scent. This marketing confusion has added another layer to the citronella versus lemongrass debate over the years.

[00:06:47]In modern times, both plants have become symbols of natural living. Lemongrass is associated with healthy cuisine, herbal wellness, and fresh flavors, while citronella represents eco-friendly pest control and outdoor comfort. Their oils are now found in everything from shampoos and lotions to candles and household cleaners. Yet, despite their popularity, many people still cannot tell them apart. That confusion highlights something fascinating about nature. Even closely related plants can evolve into completely different roles in human culture depending on their chemistry, flavor, and usefulness.

[00:07:33]In the end, citronella and lemongrass may share similar origins and appearances, but they serve entirely different purposes in everyday life. One transformed kitchens with its refreshing flavor, while the other became famous for keeping insects away. Together, they show how two nearly identical plants can shape human habits in completely different ways. The next time you smell that sharp citrus aroma drifting through the air, you might want to ask yourself, is it dinner cooking in the kitchen or are mosquitoes being warned to stay away?

[00:08:17]Thank you for watching. If you have suggestions for our next video, feel free to share them in the comments below. We'll be sure to give you an acknowledgement for your contribution.

[00:08:30]Thank you for joining us on this journey through the history of simple things.

[00:08:34]Don't forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more stories woven through the smallest details.

[00:08:40]>> [music]