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Can You Grow Rosemary in Illinois?

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

Grow indoors

Rosemary grows beautifully in containers that can be brought indoors before hard frost.

Plant zones

6a–11b

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Rosemary

Rosemary is a Mediterranean herb that thrives in poor well-drained soil and full sun once established.

Plant in the sunniest most well-drained spot. Excellent in containers — bring indoors in winter in cold zones. Drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering.

Full rosemary growing guide →

Gardening in Illinois

Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.

See what grows well in Illinois →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Rosemary in Illinois?

Rosemary grows beautifully in containers that can be brought indoors before hard frost.

What zone is Illinois?

Illinois spans USDA Zone 5b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a).

When do you plant Rosemaries in Illinois?

See the planting guide for Rosemary — timing depends on your exact frost date.