How to Grow Lemongrass in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
A subtropical clump that thrives in Auckland and Northland and only stays fully evergreen in the frost-free north. In colder districts grow it in a pot and shelter it over winter. Buy a plant or root a supermarket stalk in water, then harvest outer stalks as needed.
What it looks like as it grows
When to plant lemongrass in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, February, October, November, December |
Best lemongrass varieties for NZ
- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), Clumping culinary lemongrass, raise from seed or start from a rooted supermarket stalk. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow lemongrass
- Space plants about 80cm apart.
- Sow seed around 3cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 180 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 21 days.
Pests and problems
Watch for: few pests. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
🌱 Plant Lemongrass in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Lemongrass plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant lemongrass in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy lemongrass seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds.