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Can You Grow Moringa (Drumstick Tree) in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Moringa grows as a perennial tree in your zone — harvest nutritious leaves and pods year-round.

Plant zones

9a–12b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

90–180 days

When to plant Moringa (Drumstick Tree)s in California

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 10

Harvest

Apr 10 – Jul 9

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

About Moringa (Drumstick Tree)

Moringa (the drumstick tree, sahjan) is one of the most nutritionally dense plants on Earth. Every part is edible: leaves in dals and stir-fries, pods (drumsticks) in curry, seeds pressed for oil. Grows fast from seed and handles container culture in cold climates.

Start indoors in a large container. In cold zones, cut back aggressively each fall before bringing indoors — it regrows vigorously. Grows 10-15 feet outdoors in warm zones. Harvest leaves throughout the season. Drumstick pods appear on trees 2-3 years old.

Full moringa (drumstick tree) growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.