Gardening Plant Problems Garden Pests

23 Plants That Work to Repel Mosquitos in Your Backyard

Keep your outdoor space free of pesky bugs with these mosquito-repellent species

Lantana plant with tiny yellow and pink flowers clustered together closeup

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

It only takes a few mosquitoes to ruin a lovely summer evening. Thankfully, solutions include citronella candles and sprays, heavy-duty bug sprays, and mosquito traps. However, if you want to up your natural pest-fighting game in your backyard, there are plants for that.

While they'll never be 100% effective, some plants have properties that help keep nature's bloodsuckers at bay. Here are our top recommendations for plants that repel mosquitos.

Warning

Some of the plants listed below repel mosquitos but are also toxic to people and pets, as noted.

  • 01 of 23

    Lavender

    Up Close view of lavender in bloom

    The Spruce / Adrienne Legault 

    The oil naturally created by the lavender plant (Lavandula spp.) is thought to potentially inhibit the mosquito's sense of smell. While the distilled essential oil is even more effective, a lavender bush in your garden helps you fight against these pests. Lavender is toxic to dogs and cats.

    • Name: Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Dry, well-draining
    • Mature Size: 2–3 ft. tall, 2–4 ft. wide
  • 02 of 23

    Mint

    closeup of mint leaves

    The Spruce / Kara Riley

    Mint (Mentha spp.) comes in many varieties to suit your preferences. Any mint will deter mosquitos. Add one to your outdoor sitting area—or start a collection of mint varieties. Mint is near-impossible to kill and low-maintenance, But be warned if you plant them in the ground, they'll spread like wildfire, so container planting is usually best. Mint is toxic to animals.

    • Name: Mint (Mentha spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-11
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Loamy, moist, and well-drained
    • Mature Size: 12–18 in. tall, 18–24 in. wide
  • 03 of 23

    Rosemary

    closeup of rosemary

    The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

    The scent of rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a deterrent to mosquitos and other garden pests, such as cabbage moths. Rosemary loves warm and dry climates and may need to be moved indoors in areas with harsh, cold winters. But all summer long it adorns your patio and keeps pests at bay. Rosemary prefers to dry out between waterings.

    • Name: Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-10
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Sandy, loamy, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 2–6 ft. tall, 2–4 ft. wide
  • 04 of 23

    Bee Balm

    red bee balm

    The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

    Fast-growing with bright abundant blooms, bee balm (Monarda spp.) attracts plenty of desirable pollinators like bees and butterflies. At the same time, its fresh scent is a deterrent to mosquitos, especially if you crush some leaves between your palms. For best results, crush a few leaves to release the scented oils. Bee balm has quick-spreading underground rhizomes and grows best in dry, non-humid conditions.

    • Name: Bee balm (Monarda spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Rich and moist
    • Mature Size: 10–48 in. tall, 10–36 in. wide
    Continue to 5 of 23 below
  • 05 of 23

    Allium

    purple allium

    The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

    Alliums (Allium spp.), also known as ornamental onions, emit a sulfur-onion odor that repels mosquitoes but is undetectable by humans. Along with repelling mosquitoes and other pests, allium plants add an exotic appeal through their unusual, globe-shaped flower clusters. To maximize the effect, choose varieties that bloom at different times during the season so you'll have alliums flowering from late spring through early summer. These plants can be toxic to humans and pets.

    • Name: Ornamental onion (Allium spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-10
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Well-draining
    • Mature Size: 1-4 ft. tall, 3-10 in. wide
  • 06 of 23

    American Beautyberry

    Beautyberry

    cstar55/Getty Images 

    The tiny white flowers of this small shrub aren't much to look at, but the vibrant magenta berry clusters stand out in the landscape. Beautyberry (Callicarpa Americana) plants are a member of the mint family. The fragrant oils released by crushing the beautyberry's leaves repel mosquitoes, and the berries often last long into the winter to attract and feed songbirds and small mammals.

    • Name: Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-10
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Loamy, clay, moist, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 3–6 ft. tall and wide
  • 07 of 23

    Catnip

    catnip plant

    The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong 

    Catnip (Nepeta cataria) does more than just delight your feline companions. It's a member of the mint family but looks and smells a bit different than your typical mint varieties—though it works just as well as a mosquito deterrent. Fast and easy to grow, they're also prone to taking over an entire garden bed so stick to containers. Catnip can be toxic to cats.

    • Name: Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Loamy, sandy, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 2–3 ft. tall and wide
  • 08 of 23

    Lemongrass

    Lemongrass

    Jeremy Villasis/Getty Images 

    Grassy and abundant with a bright citrus scent, lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) contains Citronellal, the main component of citronella oil that deters mosquitoes. Cut some fronds and scatter them nearby or coarsely chop the strappy leaves and scatter them around your deck, both for mosquito-repelling power and for the pleasing aroma. This plant can be toxic to pets.

    • Name: Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Rich and loamy
    • Mature Size: 2-4 ft. tall and wide
    Continue to 9 of 23 below
  • 09 of 23

    Marigold

    Marigold plant with bright orange ruffled flowers in sunlight

    The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

    These bright and summery flowers are annual staples and they also happen to help your mosquito-fighting goals. The substance in marigolds (Tagetes spp.) that gives them their insect-repelling power is pyrethrum, a substance used in many organic insecticides. Studies have shown they do more than just deter mosquitos, they also keep aphids, thrips, squash bugs, and many other garden pests at bay.

    • Name: Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Evenly moist, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 4–48 in. tall, 6–24 in. wide
  • 10 of 23

    Lantana

    Lantana plant with tiny yellow and pink-purple flowers clustered together on stem ends closeup

    The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

    Lantana flower (Lantana camara) extract in coconut oil is said to provide 94.5% protection from mosquitoes for an average of two hours. Although the scent from a plant on your patio or garden is less concentrated than the flower extract, these profusely blooming plants still provide a natural barrier against mosquitoes. Lantana may be toxic to humans and pets.

    • Name: Lantana (Lantana camara)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-11
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Neutral pH, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 1-6 ft. tall, 3-5 ft. wide
  • 11 of 23

    Fennel

    Fennel Plant

    GomezDavid/Getty Images

    Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is grown as an herb or vegetable for its bulbs. Both types have feathery foliage with a strong, anise-like aroma that deters mosquitos. The plant is a short-lived perennial but is usually grown as an annual. In addition to keeping mosquitoes away, fennel is also a host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars and the flowers are attractive to many beneficial insects including bees.

    • Name: Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Well-drained
    • Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall, 1-3 ft. wide
  • 12 of 23

    Eucalyptus

    Blue eucalyptus plant in white pot closeup

    The Spruce / Cielito Vivas

    In their native habitat, eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus spp.) are huge but size does not matter, even a potted eucalyptus works as a mosquito deterrent. For a container plant, choose a compact, slow-growing variety with a strong eucalyptus scent such as Eucalyptus pulverulenta 'Baby Blue'.

    • Name: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Well-draining
    • Mature Size: 6–53 ft. tall, 2–15 ft. wide
    Continue to 13 of 23 below
  • 13 of 23

    Basil

    closeup of basil leaves

    The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

    Generally, basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a good mosquito repellent but some types are more powerful than others. The stronger the scent, the better. Thai basil, lemon basil, cinnamon basil, and Peruvian basil are considered the best choices to fend off blood-thirsty mosquitoes.

    • Name: Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Slightly rich
    • Mature Size: 18–24 in. tall and wide
  • 14 of 23

    Thyme

    Close up of the mature leaves of a thyme plant

    The Spruce / Almar Creative

    All varieties of thyme (Thymus spp.) repel mosquitoes but creeping thyme works best. These low-growing plants are great as ground covers or between stepping stones. They tolerate moderate foot traffic and when you step on the plant, some leaves get crushed and release the mosquito-repelling oils.

    • Name: Thyme (Thymus spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Loamy or sandy
    • Mature Size: 6-12 in. tall and wide
  • 15 of 23

    Scented Geranium

    Scented-leaved geranium plant with thick fern-like leaves with tiny red blossoms

    The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

    Scented geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) include many varieties bred for their pungent smell. Those with a lemon scent are known to be best for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Scented geraniums are perennial in warmer climates but are more often grown as annuals. They are especially popular as potted plants. Note that they can be toxic to people and pets.

    • Name: Scented geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Loamy, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 1-3 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide
  • 16 of 23

    Ageratum

    Blue ageratum with purple clusters of fringe-like flowers on thin stems

    The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

    Floss flower (Ageratum houstonianum) contains the chemical compound coumarin that repels mosquitoes. Plant this annual with feathery blue flowers around your patio or in pots on your deck to keep mosquitoes away. Ageratum was once primarily a low bedding plant, but there are now tall cultivars such as 'Blue Horizon' with a height of 2 feet or more.

    • Name: Floss flower (Ageratum houstonianum)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Well-drained but moist
    • Mature Size: 6–36 in. tall, 6–18 in. wide
    Continue to 17 of 23 below
  • 17 of 23

    Sage

    closeup of sage detail

    ​The Spruce / Kara Riley

    Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb with a semi-shrubby growth habit. It has a pungent yet pleasant odor that mosquitoes avoid. Leaves tossed into a fire pit will keep bugs away for hours. Over time, garden plants can become woody and sparse; prevent this by dividing the plants every few years.

    • Name: Sage (Salvia officinalis)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-10
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Loamy, sandy, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 2–2.5 ft. tall, 2–3 ft. wide
  • 18 of 23

    Garlic

    Close up of the bulbs of harvested garlics

    The Spruce / K. Dave

    Planting garlic (Allium sativum) in your garden won't repel mosquitoes but gives you lots of fresh garlic to make a DIY insect repellent. Allicin, the chemical compound that gives garlic its pungent smell, is released when garlic gloves are crushed or chopped. Garlic takes about nine months from planting to harvest. Garlic can be toxic to pets.

    • Name: Garlic (Allium sativum)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Moist, well-drained
    • Mature Size: 12-18 in. tall, 6-12 in. wide
  • 19 of 23

    Pennyroyal

    Pennyroyal plant with tiny purple blooms surrounded by vibrant green leaves

    The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

    Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a spreading plant closely related to spearmint and has a similar scent. It is one of the most effective bug-repelling plants and is so repugnant to mosquitoes that this species is sometimes called the mosquito plant. Although it is not especially attractive as an ornamental plant, it is an easy-care, effective ground cover, emitting a bug-repelling scent whenever you step on it. Pennyroyal can be toxic to people and pets.

    • Name: Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Moist and well-drained
    • Mature Size: 6–12 in. tall, 3–6 ft. wide
  • 20 of 23

    Catmint

    'Chartreuse on the Loose' - Catmint - Nepeta hybrid

    The Spruce / Grant Webster

    Catmint (Nepeta cataria)  is an herbaceous perennial that, like many members of the mint family, is known for repelling mosquitos. This plant will take off in any sunny spot you plant it, as long as the soil has good drainage, and it's perennial in most mild climates. Its minty leaves can also be used to make tea.

    • Name: Catmint (Nepeta cataria) 
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Well-draining
    • Mature Size: 1-3 ft. tall, 1-3 ft. wide
    Continue to 21 of 23 below
  • 21 of 23

    Mums

    Hardy mum plants with red, orange and purple flowers in garden

    The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy

    Mums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) are a fall staple that many look forward to seeing. They can usually be found on front porches with pumpkins and Halloween decorations. They can also repel mosquitos, which is ideal for those fall nights when it's still hot out. Mums are available in a variety of colors and prefer consistent watering.

    • Name: Mum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
    • Light: Full sun, partial shade
    • Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-draining
    • Mature Size: 2-4 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. wide
  • 22 of 23

    Wormwood

    Wormwood plant with silvery-green feathery leaves

    The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

    Wormwood (Artemisia artemisiifolia) grows in most poor soils and is drought tolerant. Wormwood is ideal if you live in a dry landscape and want a natural mosquito repellant. These plants grow quite large, ultimately spreading up to 4 feet wide. Keep in mind, they emit a somewhat unpleasant odor which is what deters mosquitos. Wormwood can be toxic to people and pets.

    • Name: Wormwood (Artemisia artemisiifolia)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Well-draining
    • Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall, 3-4 ft. wide
  • 23 of 23

    Lemon Verbena

    Lemon verbena plant with spear-shaped leaves and tiny white flower buds on thin stem closeup

    The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

    Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora) stands out as having a strong, lemony scent that people love but mosquitos hate, making it an ideal choice for your garden. If you live in USDA zones 8-10, lemon verbena can be planted as a perennial, returning each year. Elsewhere, grow it as an annual in well-draining soil and in an area that gets full sunlight. Lemon verbena may be toxic to people and pets.

    • Name: Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora)
    • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-10
    • Light: Full sun
    • Soil: Well-draining
    • Mature Size: 2-4 ft. tall, 2-4 ft. wide

Fun Fact

One plant you will not find on the list above is the citronella plant, which was debunked as an effective mosquito buster.

Other Ways to Repel Mosquitos

There are a few other ways to repel mosquitos naturally:

  • Use essential oils from the listed plants on your skin. Be sure to dilute them in water.
  • Prepare sachets of potpourri from the listed plants.
  • Minimize standing water near your home.
  • Utilize mosquito netting wherever possible.
  • Employ fans around your sitting space, which may blow mosquitos away.
FAQ
  • What scent do mosquitoes dislike most?

    Because of their strong sense of smell, mosquitos hate many scents including citronella, lavender, marigold, catnip, and more.

  • Which plant-based mosquito repellent is the most effective?

    The most effective plant-based mosquito repellent is catnip. This is because catnip has a compound called nepetalactone, which is more effective than active ingredients of commercial insect repellents in some studies.

  • How much lavender do you need to repel mosquitoes?

    If using lavender essential oil as a repellent, combine 20 to 40 drops of the oil with water in a spray bottle. The ideal ratio is 20% oil to 80% water.

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Lavender. ASPCA.

  2. Mint. ASPCA.

  3. Allium. North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.

  4. Catnip. ASPCA.

  5. Lemon Grass. ASPCA.

  6. Repellency of Lantana camara (Verbenaceae) Flowers Against Aedes Mosquitoes, Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association.

  7. Lantana camara. North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.

  8. Geranium. ASPCA.

  9. Pelargonium. North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.

  10. Onion. ASPCA.

  11. Dangers of essential oils. Texas A&M University.

  12. Pennyroyal. National Library of Medicine.

  13. Artemisia spp. University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources.

  14. Aloysia citriodora. North Carolina State Extension.

  15. Mosquito Repellents: Types and Recommendations. Mississippi State Department of Health.

  16. Reichert W, Ejercito J, Guda T, Dong X, Wu Q, Ray A, Simon JE. Repellency Assessment of Nepeta cataria Essential Oils and Isolated Nepetalactones on Aedes aegypti. Sci Rep. 2019 Feb 6;9(1):1524. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-36814-1.