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If you want to boost your garden’s health, grow lemongrass!

This fragrant, tropical grass not only adds zing to your cooking and tea — it’s also a great addition to every Aussie garden.

You can start with the popular West Indian lemongrass or native Australian variety (Cymbopogon ambiguus).

Whichever you choose, lemongrass brings a fresh, lemon-like scent that keeps pests away and attracts pollinators.

Let’s explore the best plants to grow with lemongrass!

Growing Conditions | Lemongrass Companion Planting Chart | Herbs | Flowers | Fruits | Vegetables | Australian Native Plants | Bad Companion Plants | Companion Planting Tips

 

What Makes Lemongrass a Great Companion Plant?

lemongrass plants growing outdoors

Lemongrass is a standout companion plant that can do so much for your garden.

Its leaves contain citronella, a natural substance which can deter pests (like aphids and spider mites) and protect nearby plants. 

Even cooler, the scent of lemongrass mimics queen bees’ pheromones. This lures in bees and other pollinators that help other plants grow.

Honey farmers use lemongrass essential oil to attract honeybee swarms to new hives!

And let’s not forget the aesthetic appeal. 

Lemongrass stalks and leaves look stunning behind shorter plants or as a ground cover beneath taller plants.

Best of all, growing lemongrass in Australia is simple and quick in any garden!

 

Growing Conditions for Lemongrass Companion Plants 

herb garden with sage in focus, along with thyme, lemongrass, rosemary

When companion planting lemongrass, look for plants that share similar growing needs.

This helps all plants thrive together and makes caring for them much easier. 

Lemongrass and its companion plants grow well in these conditions: 

  • A warm climate
  • 6-8 hours of full sun daily
  • Well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5

Also, choose plants with varying root depths to reduce competition for water and nutrients.

Because lemongrass has deep roots, it’s best grown with shallow-rooted neighbours. 

Remember, companion planting can be experimental. Whenever you’re unsure, you can always reach out to an expert gardener in your area.

 

Lemongrass Companion Planting Chart

Lemongrass pairs well with many plants including herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. 

If you’re wondering what to plant with lemongrass, check out this chart for the best pairings:

Herbs Flowers Fruits Vegetables Native Australian Plants
  • Basil
  • Coriander
  • Thyme
  • Calendula
  • Chamomile
  • Marigold
  • Lemons
  • Mangoes
  • Oranges
  • Legumes
  • Nightshades
  • Rhizomes
  • Blue flax lily
  • Lilly pilly
  • Westringia

 

Note: When choosing a companion for lemongrass, check first if any plants are considered environmental weeds in your area!

 

Herbs to Plant With Lemongrass

Lemongrass thrives with many other herbs. Together, they create an aromatic garden that naturally repels pests.

Apart from the ones listed below, you can also plant lemongrass with lemon verbena, oregano, and rosemary.

 

Basil

Sweet basil with lemongrass and holy basil in vegetable garden

Basil and lemongrass both boast strong scents that repel pests and attract pollinators. 

They also thrive in similar conditions: warm climates, full sun, and well-drained soil.

Like lemongrass, basil is sensitive to frost. 

In colder regions, grow basil and lemongrass in containers so you can bring them indoors during winter.

Note: Be cautious, as sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is considered invasive in some parts of Australia. Always check local regulations first before planting!

 

Coriander

Planting coriander (or cilantro) and lemongrass together creates a stunning herb garden!

Coriander’s foamy white or pale pink flowers contrast beautifully against lemongrass’s green foliage.

The herb also attracts parasitic wasps that prey on garden pests, which could benefit your lemongrass.

You can grow coriander between lemongrass clumps to save space. Lemongrass’s tall leaves also help shield coriander from extreme afternoon heat.

 

Thyme

Fresh thyme plants with small green leaves and tiny flowers growing in a garden

Thyme is a hardy and versatile herb that thrives in many parts of Australia.

In early summer, it bursts into clusters of pink, mauve, or white flowers that are packed with nectar — this draws in pollinators!

Thyme is a low-growing herb. You can plant it beneath lemongrass to help suppress weeds.

 

Flowers to Plant With Lemongrass

Flowers are a great addition to your lemongrass garden because they attract beneficial insects and deter pests. 

Along with those listed below, lemongrass pairs well with echinacea, geraniums, and nasturtiums.

Note: Some geranium and nasturtium varieties are considered environmental weeds in certain Australian states. Be sure to check local regulations before planting!

 

Calendula

Blooming calendula on a flower bed in the summer garden

Plant calendula (or pot marigold) with lemongrass for a pop of warm apricot, yellow, or orange blooms!

Both plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun. When planting them together, give each plant enough space to grow since they can spread.

You can also use calendula as a border plant to add charm and function to your garden.

 

Chamomile

Chamomile is a white flowering perennial. It’s been prized for centuries for its calming properties. 

A cup of chamomile tea can help with relaxation and support digestion.

When planted next to lemongrass, chamomile’s daisy-like blooms stand out beautifully.

These two plants thrive in the same conditions. Both are hardy, can adapt to most climates, and tolerate a bit of drought.

 

Marigold

Signet marigold flowers blooming in the sunlight

Marigolds repel pests while adding a splash of warm colour to any garden. They bloom in shades of orange, red, or yellow!

Some marigold varieties can grow up to 1m tall — perfect as border plants or between lemongrass rows. 

Meanwhile, dwarf types like Signet marigolds look attractive in front of lemongrass. 

Once established, marigolds are drought-tolerant and only need watering when the soil dries out.

 

Fruits to Plant With Lemongrass

Plant lemongrass around the base of fruit trees to attract pollinators that help boost fruit growth! 

Just be sure to prune your fruit trees regularly to give your lemongrass plenty of sunlight.

The fruits listed below thrive with lemongrass, but you can also explore other tropical options like pineapple and papaya (or pawpaw).

 

Lemons

Lemon tree with green leaves and fruits

Lemon trees and lemongrass make the ultimate citrus duo. They can fill your garden with a fragrant lemony scent!

This pairing is perfect for warm climates since both plants love to soak up the sun.

If you’re short on space, plant dwarf lemon varieties like the Meyer lemon!

 

Mangoes

Lemongrass and mango trees both flourish in full sun and well-draining soil. 

They grow best in tropical climates and won’t fare well in areas with harsh winters. 

For smaller gardens, consider growing dwarf mango varieties, which are about 2-3m taller than lemongrass.

 

Oranges

Young orange tree with green fruit growing alongside lemongrass

Orange trees and lemongrass thrive in similar conditions, so growing them together just makes sense!

Lemongrass also helps deter pests like aphids and scale insects that often affect citrus trees.

Young orange trees need regular watering to establish strong roots, but they become drought-tolerant once mature.

 

Vegetables to Plant With Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a great addition to your vegetable garden! 

Legumes, nightshades, and rhizomes all thrive in warm climates and pair well with lemongrass.

 

Legumes

Legumes like beans and peas are low-maintenance plants, so they’re easy to grow in any veggie patch.

They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil — just like lemongrass! 

Legumes are also known for their ability to enrich the soil with nitrogen, which can benefit your lemongrass plants.

 

Nightshades

Vegetable garden with eggplants, lemongrass, and asparagus

Nightshades — such as capsicum, eggplants, and tomatoes — are wonderful companions for lemongrass. 

They’re all warmth-loving plants so they’ll surely thrive together. Lemongrass also benefits your nightshades by driving away pests. 

But watch out — nightshades are prone to fungal issues. Keep an eye out for blight, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt as they grow.

 

Rhizomes

lemongrass and turmeric plants growing together in a garden

Just like lemongrass, rhizomes — like galangal, ginger, and turmeric — originated from tropical Asian regions. 

They thrive in similar conditions, making them perfect companions!

Rhizomes can also benefit your lemongrass plants. 

The roots of rhizomes break up and help improve the soil. This allows water to drain properly and helps plants absorb nutrients better.

 

Native Australian Plants to Grow With Lemongrass

Lemongrass can grow well with native Australian plants that prefer a warm climate. 

Try planting native lemongrass (Cymbopogon ambiguus) for a truly Aussie garden!

 

Blue flax lily

Blue flax lily with blooming flowers in a sunny garden outdoors

Blue flax lilies have vibrant foliage and striking purple or blue flowers. 

They can grow to about one-third the height of lemongrass, which makes them a gorgeous ground cover.

Blue flax lilies are easy to care for once they’re established. Water them moderately and watch out for root rot!

 

Lilly pilly

Lilly pillies are known for their glossy leaves and colourful berries, which are often used in jams and sauces.

They can thrive well with lemongrass, as they have similar growing needs.

The taller lilly pilly can shade your lemongrass — make sure to space them adequately so both plants get their share of sun!

 

Westringia

Westringia bush with lush foliage and little flowers blooming outdoors

Westringia has grey to green-grey foliage that contrasts beautifully with lemongrass leaves. 

It thrives in the same conditions as lemongrass and is a breeze to grow!

Some Westringia varieties can grow bushy and are great for hedges and borders. 

However, low-growing varieties — like Low Horizon Westringia — are perfect as a neat ground cover beneath lemongrass.

 

Bad Companion Plants for Lemongrass

While plenty of plants thrive with lemongrass, there are a few to avoid.

The following are bad companion plants for lemongrass:

  • Mint
  • Fennel
  • Brassicas
  • Leafy greens

Avoid planting mint and lemongrass together. Mint spreads rapidly and can overcrowd your lemongrass plants. 

Meanwhile, fennel’s roots grow extensively and release chemicals that can stunt lemongrass’s growth or make it taste bad!

Brassicas like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can compete with lemongrass for water and nutrients.

On the other hand, leafy greens — like kale, lettuce, and spinach — may struggle in warm regions where lemongrass thrives.

 

Lemongrass Companion Planting Tips

Lemongrass plants spread across an outdoor garden

When choosing companion plants for lemongrass, look for ones that won’t spread too aggressively. 

As a rule of thumb, make sure there’s enough space between the plants to avoid competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight. 

Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of overcrowding and prune when needed.

Be sure to plant taller companions a short distance away from lemongrass to ensure it gets enough light. 

 

FAQs on Lemongrass Companion Planting

Learn more about lemongrass companion planting below!

 

Will potted lemongrass still benefit nearby plants?

Rows of lemongrass plants in terracotta pots

Yes! Potted lemongrass can still attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which helps nearby plants. 

Its strong scent also keeps some pests away from your garden, even if it’s in a pot.

 

How far apart should I plant lemongrass and its companions?

You can plant smaller herbs like coriander and thyme between lemongrass clumps. 

For other plants, the spacing depends on their height and how wide their foliage is. 

Half a metre is usually enough, but you may need more space. As a rule of thumb, make sure all plants get enough sunlight!

 

Can lemongrass be grown with other plants in containers?

Yes, you can grow lemongrass in containers with other plants!

This is especially beneficial if you live in colder climates so you can move your frost-sensitive plants indoors during winter. 

Be sure to pick a large container or pot to give your plants enough room to grow. 

For a balanced mix, opt for low-growing companions like coriander and thyme to avoid overcrowding your pot.

About Author

Jamie Donovan

Jamie is an Australian horticulturalist and landscape designer. He enjoys writing about landscape architecture, garden design and lifestyle topics.

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About Author

Jamie Donovan

Jamie is an Australian horticulturalist and landscape designer. He enjoys writing about landscape architecture, garden design and lifestyle topics.

Share