This is Citronella, aka the Mosquito Plant
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It's widely believed that it repels mosquitos with a "soapy" scent. If you have one of those outdoor repelling candles it's probably made of this plant. For one, I had no idea that this plant produces flowers. Second, I've had some of my best propagation results with this plant. However, I've read conflicting reports that the plant itself doesn't repel, in fact, some mosquitoes actually land right on it.
So, I decided to do some research and I found these interesting facts:
#1: IT'S EDIBLE
One of my awesome followers on Instagram (Champagne Tastes) commented with recipe for a simple syrup made from citronella. It makes a great sweetener for your summer drinks.Check it out here
#2: THERE ARE TWO VARIETIES
Although known as "The Mosquito Plant", the Citronella GERANIUM isn't the variety used in those backyard candles you may be familiar with. It is a leafier plant, like a lettuce and it also flowers.When you use the repellant, though, you're using a product derived from the Citronella GRASS variety. As you may have guessed, it has long, thin blades produces an oil that is very effective at repelling mosquitos. It is not poisonous but, it can produce an allergic effect.
Don't worry, though. Both varieties are very distinct and it's not very likely that you will get them mixed up.
#3: IT HAS PRACTICAL HEALTH BENEFITS
The GRASS, anyway, has lots of homeopathic uses such as mosquito repellant, aromatherapy, anti-inflammation, fever reduction and deodorant! Whether, you burn it, apply it or ingest it, the grass variety is very beneficial in many ways.The GERANIUM is also believed to repel mosquitos but is more useful as an edible sweetener and even the dried leaves can make a nice potpourri
Read more at PracticalGardenPlants.com
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