There’s nothing more frustrating than prepping a meal and realizing you’re out of fresh herbs. But what if your kitchen, balcony, or windowsill could double as a personal herb aisle—always stocked, always fragrant, always fresh? With the right choices, you can grow your own flavor-packed herbs faster than you think.
In this guide, we’re sharing 15 fast-growing herbs that go from seed (or cutting) to harvest in just a few weeks. From basil and cilantro to dill, chives, and mint, these herbs are low-maintenance, quick to sprout, and endlessly useful. Plus, they thrive in pots, making them perfect for even the smallest indoor or outdoor spaces.
At Plantisima, we’re all about practical gardening with delicious rewards. These herbs not only elevate your cooking, but also add beauty, fragrance, and life to your home. Forget the last-minute store run—your fresh garnish is already growing.
Basil
Basil’s unmistakable aroma is synonymous with summer days. This herb grows vigorously, especially when given ample sunlight and regular watering. Perfect for adding a fresh touch to salads or a burst of flavor to pasta dishes, its versatility is unmatched. Basil can also be grown in small pots, making it ideal for urban dwellers short on space. Remember to pinch off the flowers to encourage more leaf growth. Did you know? Basil is believed to have originated in India and has been cherished in culinary traditions worldwide.
Mint
Mint’s invigorating scent and refreshing taste make it a favorite among home gardeners. Known for its rapid spread, mint can quickly take over a garden bed if not contained. It’s perfect for summer beverages or garnishing desserts. Just a few sprigs can transform a regular dish into something special. Plant it in a container to manage its wild nature. Fun fact: Mint has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including aiding digestion.
Cilantro
Loved for its citrusy notes, cilantro is a staple in many global cuisines. It grows quickly, allowing for frequent harvests. Whether topping tacos or flavoring curries, its bright taste is a culinary asset. Be mindful of its short life cycle; planting in succession can ensure a continuous supply. Surprisingly, some people inherit a gene that makes cilantro taste soapy to them. Regardless, it’s a beloved herb for most.
Parsley
Parsley is more than just a garnish; it’s a robust herb that enhances many dishes. Its fresh, slightly peppery flavor complements soups, stews, and salads. Easy to grow, parsley thrives in pots and garden beds alike. Regular trimming promotes a bushier plant. Did you know? Parsley was used by the ancient Greeks as a symbol of victory and as a wreath for athletes.
Chives
Chives bring a subtle onion flavor to dishes without overpowering them. Their delicate stalks and pretty purple flowers make them an attractive addition to any herb garden. Snip them for salads, soups, or as a baked potato topping. Chives grow best in well-drained soil and enjoy sunny spots. Interestingly, they belong to the same family as garlic and onions, offering similar health benefits.
Thyme
This perennial herb is a powerhouse in the kitchen, offering a woody aroma and earthy flavor. Thyme is a resilient grower, requiring minimal care while providing maximum taste. It’s perfect for seasoning meats, soups, and roasted vegetables. Plant it in a sunny spot, and it will reward you year after year. Historically, thyme was used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming, highlighting its long-standing significance.
Oregano
Oregano’s bold flavor is a must for Mediterranean dishes. Its leaves are potent, so a little goes a long way. This hardy herb thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys plenty of sunlight. Whether sprinkled on pizza or mixed into sauces, it adds a delightful zing. Fun fact: Oregano’s name derives from Greek, meaning “joy of the mountain,” reflecting its natural habitat.
Rosemary
Rosemary’s pine-like fragrance is unmistakable. This tough herb withstands drought once established, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens. Its needle-like leaves are ideal for flavoring meats, breads, and stews. Rosemary symbolizes remembrance and fidelity, often used in weddings and funerals. Despite its hardy nature, it appreciates a sunny location to flourish.
Sage
Sage offers a savory, slightly peppery taste that pairs beautifully with poultry and stuffing. Its broad leaves are a cooking staple in many homes. Thriving in well-drained soil, sage is easy to grow and adds texture to garden landscapes. Ancient Romans valued sage for its supposed healing properties, using it to treat various ailments.
Dill
Dill’s wispy fronds and aromatic seeds are culinary treasures. Often associated with pickles, dill adds a fresh twist to salads and seafood. It’s a fast grower, thriving in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Allow it to self-seed for a continuous supply. Historically, dill was used in ancient Egypt for its healing properties and as a symbol of wealth.
Tarragon
Tarragon is known for its anise-like flavor, adding a sophisticated touch to dishes. Particularly popular in French cuisine, it’s often used in sauces and dressings. Tarragon grows well in pots and appreciates regular watering and sunlight. Interestingly, tarragon was used in ancient medicine as a remedy for snake bites and toothaches, showcasing its diverse applications.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm’s citrusy scent is both calming and invigorating. It’s perfect for teas, desserts, or simply as a fragrant garden companion. Growing rapidly, it thrives in partial shade and requires regular trimming to curb its spread. This herb has been used in traditional medicine to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a favorite among herbalists.
Fennel
Fennel’s sweet, anise-like flavor makes it a versatile kitchen staple. Its feathery fronds can be used as a garnish, while the bulb adds depth to roasts and salads. Fennel is relatively easy to cultivate, thriving in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Historically, it was revered by the Greeks and Romans for its supposed health benefits, including promoting longevity and courage.
Marjoram
Marjoram, with its sweet, citrusy undertones, enhances various dishes, from soups to marinades. This tender perennial is easy to grow, particularly in containers or well-drained garden beds. It’s a close relative of oregano, often used interchangeably in recipes. In ancient times, marjoram was associated with love and happiness, used in wedding ceremonies as a symbol of joy.
Basil (Thai)
Thai basil stands out with its spicy-sweet flavor, often featured in Southeast Asian cuisine. Its striking purple stems and vibrant leaves make it an attractive addition to any herb collection. It thrives in warm climates, preferring sunny spots and regular watering. Unlike sweet basil, Thai basil holds its flavor even when cooked at high temperatures, making it ideal for stir-fries and curries.