Inflorescence and Flowers : Panicles with sessile spikelets elliptic-lanceolate, lower glume flat or slightly concave, 2-keeled, 3-veined between keels.
Significance :
The citronella oil obtained from steam distillation of leaves is considered rubifacient, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, sedating, analgesic.
It is employed in traditional mosquito repellents and household fumigants.
It is also used as food flavoring agent, in beverages, baked goods, cereals, candies, dairy products, gelatins and puddings.