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Can You Grow Lemongrass in Illinois?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Won't grow here

Lemongrass is frost-tender but excellent as a container plant that overwinters indoors.

Plant zones

8b–11b

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in Illinois

Start indoors

Feb 9

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 21 – Jul 16

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

About 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.

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.

Full lemongrass growing guide →

Gardening in Illinois

Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.