the S Asiatic grass (Cymbopogon nardus) from which this oil is derived
Origin:
ModL < citron: see citron
See citronella in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
A tropical Asian grass (Cymbopogon nardus) having bluish-green, lemon-scented leaves and an essential oil.
A pale yellow to brownish aromatic oil obtained from this plant, used chiefly in perfumery and also in some insect repellents and commercial flavorings.
Origin:
Origin: New Latin
Origin: , from French citronnelle, lemon oil
Origin: , diminutive of citron, citron; see citron