Cymbopogon nardus

Cymbopogon
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Monocots
(unranked):	Commelinids
Order:	Poales
Family:	Poaceae
Genus:	Cymbopogon Spreng.
Species:	C. nardus
Binomial name
Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle

Cymbopogon nardus is a perennial of the Poaceae grass family, originating in tropical Asia.

• It is commonly used as an essential oil known as "citronella oil".

• Cannot be eaten because of its unpalatable nature.

• Is an invasive species that renders pastureland useless as cattle will starve even in its abundance.

Ethnobotanical uses

Essential oils are extracted from the aerial parts, and are applied topically as an insect repellent.

References

• http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=CYNA
• http://www.fao.org/AG/AGP/AGPC/doc/GBASE/DATA/PF000206.HTM