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Can You Grow Lemongrass in North Carolina?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Grow indoors

Grow in a large pot so you can bring it indoors before frost — it thrives on a sunny windowsill all winter.

Plant zones

8b–11b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 3

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 14 – Jun 8

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.