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Lemongrass plant growing in a garden

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Growing Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical grass used throughout Southeast Asian, Indian, and Caribbean cooking. The fragrant stalks flavour curries, soups, and teas. In cold zones, grow as a container plant and overwinter indoors.

Quick Answer: Lemongrass grows in Zones 8b–11b, taking 75–100 days to harvest.
🌡️ Zones 8b–11b ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🔧 Intermediate 🪴 Container OK (5+ gal) 🏠 Indoor Viable 🏜️ Drought Tolerant ♾️ Perennial ⚠️ Toxic to Pets

Can You Grow Lemongrass in Your Area?

Growing Tips

In cold zones, start indoors 8 weeks before last frost in a large pot. Bring indoors before frost. Divide clumps every 2-3 years. Harvest outer stalks 12 inches tall. Loves heat and full sun.

Where Does Lemongrass Grow?

Lemongrass is suited to Zones 8b–11b. Here are some areas where it thrives:

✅ Zone 8b ✅ Zone 9a ✅ Zone 9b ✅ Zone 10a ✅ Zone 10b ✅ Zone 11a ✅ Zone 11b
Won't grow outdoors in: very cold zones (below Zone 8b) . Lemongrass is frost-tender but excellent as a container plant that overwinters indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lemongrass grows in USDA Zones 8b–11b.
Lemongrass needs moderate care.
Yes — use a 5+ gallon pot.
Lemongrass is TOXIC for dogs and TOXIC for cats.