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.

[edit] Ethnobotanical uses

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

[edit] References

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