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Cymbopogon flexuosus, or commonly referred to as Lemon Grass, is a tropical perennial that is a well-known herb for Asian foods. It forms a clump, reaching 36 - 60 inches in height and 24 - 36 inches in width. It is very much like an ornamental grass with strap-like leaves reaching 36 inches and arching. It has a strong lemon aroma, and is used in making Lemon Grass oil. It is used in fish and chicken dishes, soups and sauces, and in hot teas. Start the seed indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Press the seed into the soil, lightly cover it and keep the seed moist. With a temperature of 70 - 75F, germination is usually in 21 days. Transplant the young plants outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Lemon Grass prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Space plants 36 - 48 inches apart. Lemon Grass will grow as an annual in cold areas. It also will do well planted in a container so that it can be brought indoors during the winter.