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Can You Grow Lemongrass in Washington?

US · USDA Zone 8b · zones 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b

Grows well here

Lemongrass grows as a perennial in your zone — plant in a large container for easy harvesting.

Plant zones

8b–11b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Apr 15 – May 10

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemongrass in Washington?

Lemongrass grows as a perennial in your zone — plant in a large container for easy harvesting.

What zone is Washington?

Washington spans USDA Zone 8b (4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Lemongrasses in Washington?

Plant Lemongrasses around late January (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Apr 15 – May 10.