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Can You Grow Moringa (Drumstick Tree) in New Mexico?

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

Won't grow here

Moringa is frost-tender, but in a large container it grows fast and produces leaves all summer.

Plant zones

9a–12b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

90–180 days

When to plant Moringa (Drumstick Tree)s in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 29 – Aug 27

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.