Family: Poaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Cymbopogon winterianus, commonly known as Burma citronella, Java citronella, or Winter’s grass, is a tall, aromatic grass native to Southeast Asia, particularly Myanmar (Burma) and Indonesia. It grows in clumps up to 1.5–2 meters tall, with long, slender, green leaves and a strong citrus-like fragrance. This grass is widely cultivated for its essential oils, which are used in perfumes, soaps, insect repellents, and aromatherapy. Its pleasant scent and practical applications make it a popular ornamental and commercial plant in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Risks, Threats & Management:
This species is considered low risk in Hawaii and other tropical islands. It does not typically spread aggressively or displace native plants, and it has no major pests or diseases of concern locally. Standard garden maintenance, such as occasional trimming and harvesting of leaves for oil production, is sufficient to manage its growth. Overall, Burma citronella is a safe and beneficial choice for home gardens and small-scale commercial planting, offering both beauty and practical uses without significant ecological concerns.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates (increases probability that it could establish in Hawaiian Islands)
  
• Other Cymbopogon species have become invasive
  
• Unpalatable to grazing animals
  
• Reproduces by seed (rarely)
  
• Hybridizes with C. nardus
  
• Able to reach maturity in one growing season
  
• Intentionally cultivated (and dispersed) by people
  
• Tolerates and can regrow after repeated cutting and harvesting

Low Risk Traits:

• Known only from cultivation (no verified reports of naturalization or invasiveness)
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Source of essential oil
  
• Grows best in full sun
  
• Grows on limited soil types
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Limited or absent seed production reduces risk of inadvertent dispersal