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Can You Grow Lemongrass in Virginia?

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

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8b–11b

Virginia last frost

early March

Virginia first frost

late November

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in Virginia

Start indoors

Jan 10

Transplant

Mar 7

Harvest

May 21 – Jun 15

Dates are approximate, based on Virginia'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 Virginia

Virginia ranges from Zone 5b in the mountains to Zone 7b on the coast. The Shenandoah Valley is Zone 6b-7a. Four seasons with a long productive growing window in most areas.