Is Lemongrass Perennial in Indianapolis? Overwintering Tips for Zone 5/6

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tender perennial hardy only in Zones 10–11. In Indianapolis (Zone 5/6), it will not survive winter outdoors.

Grow as an Annual or Container Plant

In ground: Treat as an annual; replant each spring.
In pots: Use large containers. Move to a greenhouse or bright indoor space before frost.
Propagation: Root stalk bases in water with plant food; transplant when roots form.

Enjoy its tropical foliage and citrus scent all summer, then overwinter indoors for a head start next year.

Perennials: Lemon Plant Losing Leaves, Stem Drying: Critical Light Deficiency; Fixing Soft Sand Fill for Lawn Establishment; Dead Lawn in Albuquerque: Rock Over Sod or Remove First?; Growing Lemongrass in Texas Hill Country: Propagation, Care, and Deer Resistance; Leafcutter Ants: Lemon Grass Not Reliable—Use Insecticide (Diazinon) and Consult Garden Center; Growing Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Tropical Herb for Containers & Garden; Lemon Zest: Growing and Using Lemongrass; Lemongrass for Mosquito Control: Not Hardy, Not Effective as Landscape Plant; Lemongrass Winter Care: Freeze Stalks for Cooking, Replant in Spring; Lemongrass Winter Care in Georgia: Best Bet Is a Sheltered Outdoor Spot

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