Cymbopogon plant named ‘RLJCC1’

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of Cymbopogon commutatus grass is provided. The new variety was discovered during a mass selection program that was carried out in India in a cultivated area, and offers significant advantages over a typical plant of the species. More specifically, the new variety exhibits superior drought tolerance, a vigorous perennial growth habit, and lighter green leaves than typically exhibited by the species. The plant produces an essential oil having an enhanced geraniol and geranyl acetate content that is useful to form perfumes and in flavor applications. Asexual reproduction can be readily carried out by the rooting of slips.

1. A new and distinct  Cymbopogon commutatus  plant having the following combination of characteristics:
 (a) displays a perennial vigorous growth habit,  
 (b) commonly forms lighter green leaves than typically exhibited by the species,  
 (c) forms an abundance of roots with superior tillering,  
 (d) displays superior drought tolerance,  
 (e) produces essential oil having an enhanced geraniol and geranyl acetate content, and  
 (f) readily undergoes asexual reproduction by the use of slips; substantially as illustrated and described.