Home › Sorrel › Grow in California

Can You Grow Sorrel in California?

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

Won't grow here

Sorrel grows almost anywhere with basic sun and drainage — only sustained drought slows it.

Plant zones

2a–9a

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Sorrels in California

Direct sow

Oct 1 – Oct 31

Harvest

Jun – Jul (following year)

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

About Sorrel

Sorrel is a lemony, cold-hardy perennial green that returns year after year — one of the earliest greens in spring and nearly maintenance-free.

Direct sow in early spring. Harvest young leaves for salad (mild) or mature for cooking (tangier). Divide plants every few years. Cut flower stalks to keep leaves tender.

Full sorrel 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.