HomeLemongrass › Grow in South Carolina

Can You Grow Lemongrass in South Carolina?

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

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

South Carolina last frost

mid-February

South Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in South Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Feb 15

Harvest

May 1 – May 26

Dates are approximate, based on South 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 South Carolina

South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with long hot summers and mild winters. The Upstate is Zone 7a-7b; the coast is Zone 8a-8b. Two growing seasons are standard.

See what grows well in South Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemongrass in South Carolina?

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

What zone is South Carolina?

South Carolina spans USDA Zone 8a (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Lemongrasses in South Carolina?

Plant Lemongrasses around mid-February (start indoors Jan 1), harvest May 1 – May 26.