PHYTOREMEDIATION POTENTIALS OF LEMON GRASS (CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS STAPF) GROWN IN HEAVY METAL POLLUTED SOIL

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the phytoremediation potentials of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus Stapf) in soils contaminated with arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb). The concentrations of these heavy metals were measured in lemongrass roots, leaves, and the surrounding soil using triplicate samples to ensure accuracy. Results showed higher metal accumulation in roots (As: 0.09 mg/kg, Cr: 0.26 mg/kg, Pb: 0.72 mg/kg) compared to leaves (As: 0.06 mg/kg, Cr: 0.16 mg/kg, Pb: 0.29 mg/kg), with soil concentrations indicating moderate contamination (As: 0.25 mg/kg, Cr: 0.84 mg/kg, Pb: 2.46 mg/kg). Bioconcentration factors (BCF) for roots (As: 0.36, Cr: 0.31, Pb: 0.29) and leaves (As: 0.24, Cr: 0.19, Pb: 0.12) were less than 1, and translocation factors (TF) (As: 0.67, Cr: 0.62, Pb: 0.40) confirmed limited metal mobility to aerial parts, indicating suitability for phytostabilization rather than phytoextraction. These findings suggest that lemongrass is effective in stabilizing heavy metals, particularly Pb, in the root zone, reducing their bioavailability. The study highlights lemongrass’s potential as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly phytoremediator in tropical regions, with low leaf metal concentrations supporting its safe use for essential oil production. Recommendations include exploring soil amendments, long-term field trials, and co-planting strategies to enhance remediation efficiency. This research contributes to sustainable management of heavy metal-contaminated soils using native, economically valuable plants.