Top 5 Perennial Herbs You Can Grow Once and Harvest for Years

Most herbs need to be replanted each season, but perennial herbs offer a long-term solution. These hardy plants come back year after year, saving you time, money, and effort. Whether you’re growing in the ground or in pots, these five herbs are some of the best investments for a sustainable garden.

Let’s dive into the top perennial herbs that will keep your garden green and your meals flavorful all year round.

Why Choose Perennial Herbs?

• Long-term harvests – Plant once, enjoy for years

• Low maintenance – Many tolerate drought and poor soil

• Sustainable – Reduce waste and cost from replanting annually

• Space-efficient – Great for raised beds or container gardening

1. Thyme

Thyme is a tough, compact herb that thrives in both garden beds and containers. It’s drought-tolerant, and once established, it asks for very little.

• Light: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained, slightly sandy

• Hardiness zones: 5–9

• Harvest tip: Snip the tips regularly to keep it bushy

Bonus: Thyme also repels some pests, making it a great companion plant.

2. Oregano

A Mediterranean classic, oregano is flavorful, fast-growing, and practically thrives on neglect. It spreads quickly, so give it room or grow it in containers.

• Light: Full sun

• Soil: Dry, well-draining

• Hardiness zones: 5–10

• Harvest tip: Harvest just before it flowers for the strongest flavor

Greek oregano is the most potent variety for cooking.

3. Chives

Chives are a gardener's favorite: easy to grow, quick to multiply, and great in everything from eggs to soups.

• Light: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Rich, moist but well-drained

• Hardiness zones: 3–9

• Harvest tip: Cut leaves down to about 1 inch above the soil to promote regrowth

Their edible purple flowers attract pollinators too!

4. Mint

Mint is technically perennial, but it’s so aggressive it should always be planted in containers. Otherwise, it can take over your entire garden.

• Light: Partial shade to full sun

• Soil: Moist, fertile

• Hardiness zones: 3–11

• Harvest tip: Regularly trim to keep it from flowering and getting leggy

Spearmint and peppermint are the most commonly used kitchen varieties.

5. Lavender

Often considered more ornamental, lavender is a powerful herb for culinary use, herbal teas, and natural pest repellent.

• Light: Full sun

• Soil: Dry, well-draining, slightly alkaline

• Hardiness zones: 5–9

• Harvest tip: Cut flower stalks just as buds open for the best aroma

Drought-tolerant and highly fragrant—great for pollinator gardens.

Tips for Growing Perennial Herbs Successfully

• Add mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds

• Prune annually to keep plants productive and neat

• Divide roots every 2–3 years to prevent overcrowding (especially for chives and mint)

• Use compost annually to refresh the soil

• Grow in pots if you have limited space or need control over aggressive spreaders