How Long Does Fresh Herbs Last?
Fresh basil, cilantro, parsley, rosemary, thyme, dill, and other fresh herbs.
The Short Answer
Fresh Herbs lasts 5–10 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. For longer storage, fresh herbs can be frozen for 4–6 months while maintaining good quality. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 19, 2026
Basil is the exception to the fridge rule. It turns black in the cold. Keep basil in a glass of water on the counter at room temperature. All other fresh herbs go in the fridge.
How to Store Fresh Herbs
Treat soft herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley, dill) like flowers: trim stems and place upright in a glass of water in the fridge, loosely covered with a plastic bag. Wrap hard herbs (rosemary, thyme) in a damp paper towel inside a bag.
How to Tell if Fresh Herbs Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that fresh herbs has spoiled: black or slimy leaves, wilted beyond recovery, off smell, mold.
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored fresh herbs stays safe for 5–10 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been. Freezing is always an option if you will not use it within the refrigerator window.
Frequently Asked Questions
For soft herbs: trim stems, place in water like a bouquet, cover loosely with a plastic bag, refrigerate. Change water every 2-3 days. This can triple their life.
Yes. Chop herbs and freeze in ice cube trays with olive oil or water. Pop out a cube when needed for cooking. Frozen herbs work for cooking but not for fresh garnishes.