Best Herbs to Grow in Hawaii
Hawaii spans USDA Zones 10–13, typically Zone 10. We've broken out 81 herb varieties by zone — pick your zone below or find the right varieties for your specific part of the state.
Varieties
81
for Hawaii
USDA
Zones 10–13
320–365 days season
Beginner
72
easy to grow
Heirloom
69
heritage varieties
Hawaii in USDA Zones 10–13
Hawaii spans Zones 10–13. Variety lists below are organized by zone — start with your zone for the most accurate recommendations.
Growing Herbs in Hawaii
Zone 10 gardeners enjoy one of the most herb-friendly climates in North America, with intense heat and humidity that Mediterranean herbs absolutely love. Your biggest advantage is the nearly year-round growing season – that 320-day window means you can harvest fresh basil in December and start new cilantro plantings every few weeks. However, the combination of high temperatures and humidity creates unique challenges, particularly with fungal diseases and bolting in cool-season herbs like cilantro and dill.
The key to success in Zone 10 is selecting heat-tolerant varieties and understanding which herbs to grow when. While your summers can stress even heat-loving basil, your 'winters' provide perfect growing conditions for herbs that struggle in true summer heat. Look for varieties specifically bred for heat tolerance, disease resistance, and slow bolting. The herbs we've selected thrive in your climate's intensity while providing the flavors every kitchen garden needs.
These 20 varieties represent the cream of the crop for Zone 10 conditions. From multiple basil varieties that handle your humidity to cilantro that won't bolt at the first sign of heat, each selection has proven itself in similar climates. You'll find options for every season and cooking style, ensuring fresh herbs grace your table throughout your extended growing season.
Zone 10 Herbs for Hawaii★ Most of HI
81 varieties · Last frost January 31 · 320-day season
Zone 11 Herbs for Hawaii
39 varieties · Year-round growing
Zone 10 Growing Tips for Hawaii
In Zone 10, timing is everything for herb success. Start heat-sensitive herbs like cilantro, dill, and parsley from seed in late September through February – your 'cool' season when temperatures moderate enough for these crops to establish without immediate bolting. Direct sow these quick-growing herbs every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvests. For heat-lovers like basil, oregano, and thyme, plant after your last frost date around early February, but know that these will actually perform better during your spring and fall months when humidity is slightly lower.
Your intense summer heat and humidity create perfect conditions for fungal diseases, so focus on air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Space plants wider than recommended in cooler zones, and consider afternoon shade during peak summer months – even sun-loving herbs appreciate relief from your intense UV. Mulching is crucial for moisture retention, but keep it pulled back from plant stems to prevent rot in your humid conditions.
Container growing works exceptionally well in Zone 10, allowing you to move tender herbs to shadier spots during summer heat waves and providing better drainage control during heavy rain periods. Start most herbs from seed indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting, as your outdoor conditions can be too intense for delicate seedlings. Watch for rapid growth spurts during your ideal spring and fall periods – many herbs will need frequent harvesting to prevent flowering and maintain tender leaf production.