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Epazote · Culinary-herb

Epazote

Annual · Amaranthaceae

Epazote is the traditional Mexican herb most associated with bean dishes, where its strong resinous flavor is used sparingly and is also said to make beans easier to eat. It is very easy to grow, thrives in summer heat, and suits beginners best in containers because the plant self-seeds aggressively if allowed to scatter seed.

At a Glance

Days to Maturity
55–65 days
Sun
6+ hours
full sun 6-8+ hours
Spacing
12–18 "
Seed Start
4–6 weeks
before transplant
Container
Yes
3+ gallon pot
Height
2–4 ft

Zone Planting Guide

Growing Guide

Germination

Germination Time 7–14 days
Optimal Temp 70°F

Transplanting

Min Soil Temp 60°F
Harden Off 5 days

Watering

Weekly Water 0.5–1 "
Needs Low
Method Base watering

Soil

pH Range 6–7.5
Soil Type Average well-drained garden soil; epazote does not need rich pampering.

Resilience

Heat: High Cold: Low Drought: High

Common Problems

self-seeding
Cause: Plants flower and shed abundant seed if left standing too long.
Prevention: Cut regularly and remove seed heads before they mature.
root-rot
Cause: Heavy wet soil weakens this otherwise rugged herb.
Prevention: Use good drainage and water only as needed.

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Light feeder

Harvest

Cut tender leafy stems before heavy flowering for the best culinary quality.

Expected Yield 0.25–1 lbs/plant
Storage 5 days — Use fresh quickly or dry stems in a dark airy place.

Sources

seed_catalog Restoration Seeds university Illinois Extension

Epazote Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Epazote vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

Zone 5A Zone 5B Zone 6A Zone 6B Zone 7A Zone 7B Zone 8A Zone 8B Zone 9A Zone 9B

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