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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Hawaii?

US · USDA Zone 12b · zones 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b

Won't grow here

Lemon balm cannot survive the winters in your zone without heavy protection.

Plant zones

3a–9b

Hawaii last frost

no frost

Hawaii first frost

no frost

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Hawaii

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 1

Harvest

Mar 2 – Mar 12

Dates are approximate, based on Hawaii's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a prolific mint-family herb with bright citrus fragrance. Used for teas, desserts, and calming remedies. Warning: it self-seeds aggressively — grow in containers to prevent garden takeover.

Grow in a container to control spreading. Harvest before flowering for best flavor. Cut back hard in midsummer to encourage fresh growth. Tolerates partial shade better than most herbs.

Full lemon balm growing guide →

Gardening in Hawaii

Hawaii is tropical with year-round warmth. Zone varies dramatically by elevation — coastal areas are Zone 11-12 while Mauna Kea slopes reach Zone 9. Year-round growing throughout.

See what grows well in Hawaii →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in Hawaii?

Lemon balm cannot survive the winters in your zone without heavy protection.

What zone is Hawaii?

Hawaii spans USDA Zone 12b (9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b).

When do you plant Lemon Balms in Hawaii?

Plant Lemon Balms around no frost (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Mar 2 – Mar 12.