Imagine enjoying a warm summer evening in your backyard, sipping lemonade, and soaking in the sunset—without the constant buzz and bite of mosquitoes ruining the moment. Mosquitoes can turn outdoor relaxation into an itchy nightmare, and while chemical repellents work, they often come with strong odors or skin irritation concerns. Enter the best 10 plants to repel mosquitoes, a natural, eco-friendly solution to keep pests at bay while enhancing your garden’s beauty. We’ve scoured Amazon reviews, expert gardening sources, and scientific insights to curate the best 10 plants to repel mosquitoes, complete with detailed comparisons to help you choose the perfect ones for your space.
II. Why Choose Mosquito-Repellent Plants?
Mosquito-repellent plants offer a natural, sustainable way to enjoy your outdoor spaces without relying on chemical sprays. These plants emit scents or compounds, such as citronellal, nepetalactone, or pyrethrin, that mosquitoes find unpleasant, effectively deterring them from your yard. Unlike chemical repellents, these plants are eco-friendly, safe for families and pets (when chosen carefully), and add aesthetic appeal to gardens, patios, or balconies. They align with the growing demand for natural mosquito control, addressing user intent for low-maintenance, visually pleasing solutions that enhance backyard mosquito solutions. Additionally, many of these plants offer secondary benefits, like culinary uses or attracting pollinators, making them a versatile addition to any outdoor space.
III. How We Chose the Best 10 Plants to Repel Mosquitoes
To ensure you get the most effective and practical options, we carefully selected plants based on rigorous criteria:
- Effectiveness: We prioritized plants with scientifically proven mosquito-repelling compounds, backed by studies from sources like Iowa State University and expert insights from Gardenia.net and Reliant Pest Management.
- Ease of Growth: Plants were chosen for their adaptability to various climates (USDA Hardiness Zones) and suitability for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Amazon Availability and Ratings: We analyzed Amazon product listings, focusing on plants with high customer ratings (4+ stars) and positive feedback for quality and effectiveness.
- Aesthetic and Versatility: Plants were selected for their visual appeal and ability to thrive in gardens, containers, or as ornamental additions.
Our research combined current Amazon data, customer reviews, and expert gardening resources to identify top-rated, popular products that meet user needs for natural pest control. We compared plants based on price, maintenance level, scent strength, and additional benefits like culinary or pollinator-attracting properties.
IV. The Best 10 Plants to Repel Mosquitoes: Detailed Reviews and Comparisons
1. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
- Product Description: Citronella grass, often called the “mosquito plant,” is a tropical, clump-forming perennial renowned for its potent citronellal compound, the same ingredient used in commercial mosquito-repellent candles and sprays. Its tall, lush green blades release a strong, lemony scent when brushed or crushed, creating a natural barrier against mosquitoes. Perfect for warm climates or container gardening, this plant adds a tropical flair to patios, decks, or garden borders. Available on Amazon as live plants or seeds, it’s a top choice for those seeking a proven, natural mosquito deterrent.
- Price: $79.95
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Contains citronellal, a scientifically validated mosquito-repelling compound.
- Thrives in USDA Zones 10–11, ideal for warm climates or indoor overwintering.
- Grows 3–6 feet tall, making it a striking addition to garden beds or large containers.
- Low-maintenance once established, requiring full sun and well-drained soil.
- Pros:
- Highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, especially when planted densely.
- Adds a lush, tropical aesthetic to outdoor spaces.
- Easy to grow in warm, sunny conditions.
- Cons:
- Not frost-tolerant; requires indoor overwintering in colder climates.
- Seeds may take longer to germinate and establish compared to live plants.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.3/5 stars (500+ reviews). Customers praise its strong scent and effectiveness but note that seed-grown plants require patience for full growth.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Citronella grass is backed by scientific studies for its mosquito-repelling prowess, making it a reliable choice for warm climates or patio containers. Its robust growth and striking appearance make it a standout in any garden.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Perfect for homeowners in warm regions (USDA Zones 10–11) or those with sunny patios wanting a low-maintenance, high-impact repellent plant.
2. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Product Description: Lavender is a fragrant, purple-flowered perennial that combines mosquito-repelling power with stunning visual appeal. Its essential oils, rich in linalool, disrupt mosquitoes’ ability to detect hosts, keeping them at bay. This drought-tolerant herb thrives in a variety of climates and is perfect for borders, containers, or rock gardens. Available on Amazon as live plants or seeds, lavender varieties like ‘Hidcote Blue’ are popular for their compact growth and vibrant blooms, making them a favorite for eco-conscious gardeners seeking both function and beauty.
- Price: $12.95
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Emits linalool, a natural compound that repels mosquitoes and other insects.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 5–9, adaptable to various climates.
- Low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil.
- Offers aromatherapy benefits and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Pros:
- Beautiful purple blooms enhance garden aesthetics.
- Long-lasting mosquito protection with minimal care.
- Versatile for culinary, medicinal, or decorative uses.
- Cons:
- Requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- Less effective in high-humidity environments.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.5/5 stars (1,000+ reviews). Customers love its fragrance and beauty, though some report issues with plants arriving stressed during shipping.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Lavender’s combination of mosquito-repelling efficacy, low maintenance, and ornamental appeal makes it ideal for gardeners seeking a multi-purpose plant.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Gardeners in temperate climates or those wanting a fragrant, pollinator-friendly plant for borders, containers, or herb gardens.
3. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
- Product Description: Catnip, a member of the mint family, is a hardy perennial with a secret weapon: nepetalactone, a compound proven to be 10 times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Its gray-green leaves and purple blooms release a pungent scent that deters mosquitoes while attracting cats, making it a dual-purpose plant for pet owners. Available on Amazon as seeds or live plants, catnip is easy to grow and thrives in various conditions, making it a top pick for natural pest control.
- Price: $114.10
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Contains nepetalactone, a highly effective mosquito-repellent compound.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, suitable for most climates.
- Fast-growing and low-maintenance, ideal for garden beds or containers.
- Can be used in teas or as a pet-friendly treat.
- Pros:
- Scientifically proven to outperform chemical repellents.
- Budget-friendly and easy to propagate.
- Adds a soft, green texture to gardens.
- Cons:
- Can become invasive if not contained in pots or controlled.
- Strong scent may not appeal to all users.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.4/5 stars (600+ reviews). Customers praise its pet appeal and pest-repelling power, though some note its tendency to spread.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Catnip’s unmatched repellent efficacy and ease of growth make it a cost-effective, powerful choice for natural mosquito control.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Pet owners or gardeners in temperate climates seeking a robust, low-cost plant for mosquito protection.
4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
- Product Description: Rosemary is an evergreen perennial herb with a woody, aromatic scent that repels mosquitoes and adds culinary value. Its needle-like leaves contain verbenone and camphor oils, which mosquitoes find off-putting. Available on Amazon as live plants or seeds, rosemary’s silvery-green foliage and compact growth make it ideal for herb gardens, containers, or as a low hedge. Thriving in hot, dry conditions, this plant is a practical choice for gardeners who want a functional, edible plant that doubles as a natural mosquito barrier.
- Price: $21.97
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Emits verbenone and camphor oils, effective against mosquitoes.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 8–11, suitable for warm climates or container gardening.
- Drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil.
- Culinary uses include seasoning meats, soups, and breads.
- Pros:
- Dual-purpose for cooking and pest control.
- Attractive, low-maintenance shrub with year-round foliage.
- Resilient in dry, sunny conditions.
- Cons:
- Not cold-hardy; must be potted in colder climates.
- Slow to establish from seeds.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.2/5 stars (700+ reviews). Customers value its versatility and scent, though some report plants arriving stressed.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Rosemary’s mosquito-repelling power, culinary utility, and drought tolerance make it a practical, stylish addition to any garden.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Home cooks or gardeners in warm climates looking for a multi-use herb for pots or garden beds.
5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
- Product Description: Basil, a fragrant culinary herb, is a powerhouse for natural mosquito control thanks to its eucalyptol oil, which repels mosquitoes and houseflies. Available on Amazon as seeds or live plants, varieties like ‘Sweet Basil’ or ‘Lemon Basil’ thrive in containers, raised beds, or in-ground gardens. Its lush green or purple leaves and compact growth make it a versatile choice for small spaces or edible landscapes, offering both pest protection and fresh flavors for cooking.
- Price: $21.95
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Produces eucalyptol, toxic to mosquito larvae and repellent to adults.
- Grows as an annual in most climates or in USDA Zones 10–11.
- Easy to cultivate in full sun with regular watering.
- Ideal for culinary uses like pesto, salads, and Italian dishes.
- Pros:
- Affordable and widely available on Amazon.
- Quick-growing and suitable for small spaces.
- Pleasant scent enhances outdoor areas.
- Cons:
- Requires consistent watering and sun exposure.
- Less effective in small quantities; plant in clusters for best results.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.5/5 stars (1,200+ reviews). Customers love its ease of growth and flavor, though some note delicate plants during shipping.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Basil’s affordability, culinary versatility, and mosquito-repelling properties make it a budget-friendly, practical choice for urban or home gardeners.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Foodies or urban gardeners wanting a dual-purpose plant for cooking and pest control in containers or small gardens.
6. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
- Product Description: Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is a fast-growing perennial herb with a refreshing lemony scent that repels mosquitoes due to its citronellal and eucalyptol compounds. Its heart-shaped, serrated leaves and subtle white flowers make it an attractive addition to herb gardens, borders, or containers. Available on Amazon as seeds or live plants, lemon balm is prized for its ease of growth and versatility, offering mosquito protection alongside culinary and medicinal uses, such as soothing teas or aromatherapy blends. Its vigorous growth makes it a favorite for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, fragrant repellent.
- Price: $40.81
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Contains citronellal and eucalyptol, effective against mosquitoes and larvae.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, adaptable to various climates.
- Fast-growing and thrives in partial shade or full sun with moist soil.
- Used in teas, salads, or as a calming aromatherapy ingredient.
- Pros:
- Highly effective mosquito repellent when planted in clusters.
- Easy to grow and propagate, even for beginners.
- Adds a soft, green texture and pleasant scent to gardens.
- Cons:
- Can spread aggressively if not contained in pots or trimmed regularly.
- Scent is milder compared to citronella grass, requiring more plants for strong effect.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.3/5 stars (500+ reviews). Customers appreciate its rapid growth and fragrance, but some warn about its invasive tendencies if not managed.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Lemon balm’s proven repellent properties, ease of growth, and multi-purpose uses make it a practical choice for natural pest control and garden versatility.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, multi-use herb for patios, herb gardens, or medicinal purposes in temperate climates.
7. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
- Product Description: Marigolds are vibrant annual flowers known for their bright orange, yellow, or red blooms and a distinctive musky scent that repels mosquitoes, aphids, and other pests. Their pyrethrin compounds, used in commercial insecticides, make them a natural choice for pest control. Available on Amazon as seeds or starter plants, marigolds like ‘French Marigold’ or ‘African Marigold’ are easy to grow and thrive in nearly all climates as annuals. Their cheerful blooms make them a popular choice for borders, containers, or vegetable garden companions.
- Price: $9.99
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Emits pyrethrin, a natural insecticide that deters mosquitoes.
- Grows as an annual in USDA Zones 2–11, highly adaptable.
- Low-maintenance and thrives in full sun with moderate watering.
- Enhances garden aesthetics with long-lasting, colorful blooms.
- Pros:
- Affordable and widely available on Amazon.
- Repels multiple pests, including mosquitoes and garden insects.
- Long blooming season from spring to frost.
- Cons:
- Less potent mosquito repellent compared to citronella or catnip.
- May require deadheading to maintain continuous blooms.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.6/5 stars (1,500+ reviews). Customers praise their beauty and ease of growth, though some note variable repellent strength depending on planting density.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Marigolds offer a budget-friendly, visually appealing way to add subtle mosquito protection while enhancing garden vibrancy.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Beginner gardeners or those wanting colorful, low-maintenance flowers for borders, containers, or vegetable gardens.
8. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
- Product Description: Bee balm, also known as bergamot, is a striking perennial with vibrant red, pink, or purple blooms that repel mosquitoes while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its thymol-rich oils, similar to those in thyme, create a strong scent that mosquitoes avoid. Available on Amazon as seeds or live plants, varieties like ‘Monarda didyma’ thrive in gardens or large containers, adding a bold splash of color and fragrance. Its hardiness and low maintenance make it a favorite for eco-friendly gardeners seeking natural pest control.
- Price: $17.99
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Contains thymol, a natural mosquito-repellent compound.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, suitable for temperate climates.
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
- Attracts pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.
- Pros:
- Combines mosquito protection with pollinator attraction.
- Long-lasting blooms from summer to fall.
- Low-maintenance perennial with minimal care needs.
- Cons:
- Susceptible to powdery mildew in humid or crowded conditions.
- Requires space to spread, less ideal for small containers.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.4/5 stars (400+ reviews). Customers love its vibrant blooms and pollinator appeal, but some note mildew issues in humid climates.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Bee balm’s dual role as a mosquito repellent and pollinator magnet makes it ideal for sustainable, wildlife-friendly gardens.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Gardeners wanting a colorful, eco-friendly plant for large gardens or pollinator-friendly landscapes.
9. Scented Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
- Product Description: Scented geraniums, particularly lemon-scented varieties like ‘Pelargonium citronellum,’ are prized for their citronella-like fragrance that repels mosquitoes. Their soft, velvety leaves and delicate pink or white flowers add elegance to patios, balconies, or garden beds. Available on Amazon as live plants, these geraniums are perfect for container gardening in warm climates or as annuals in cooler regions. Their compact size and potent scent make them a stylish, effective choice for small spaces or ornamental displays.
- Price: $20.58
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Emits citronellal-like oils that deter mosquitoes.
- Grows in USDA Zones 10–11 or as an annual in cooler climates.
- Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, ideal for containers.
- Adds decorative flair with textured foliage and subtle blooms.
- Pros:
- Pleasant lemony scent enhances outdoor spaces.
- Easy to grow in pots, perfect for urban settings.
- Attractive foliage complements other plants.
- Cons:
- Not frost-tolerant; requires indoor overwintering in cold climates.
- Higher price point compared to seed-grown options.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.3/5 stars (300+ reviews). Customers value its scent and appearance, but some report plants arriving damaged during shipping.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Scented geraniums offer a stylish, effective solution for mosquito control in small spaces or warm climates.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Urban dwellers or gardeners in warm climates wanting potted, fragrant plants for patios or balconies.
10. Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
- Product Description: Tansy is a hardy perennial herb with fern-like leaves and clusters of yellow, button-like flowers that emit a strong, camphor-like scent to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. Its robust growth and drought tolerance make it a low-maintenance option for large gardens or borders. Available on Amazon as seeds or live plants, tansy is ideal for experienced gardeners who can manage its spreading tendencies. Its bold appearance and potent repellent properties make it a standout choice for natural pest control.
- Price: $33.20
- Key Features and Benefits:
- Contains camphor and pyrethrin, effective against multiple pests.
- Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, highly adaptable to various climates.
- Drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun with poor soil.
- Adds a rustic, green texture to garden landscapes.
- Pros:
- Highly effective against mosquitoes and other insects.
- Low-maintenance and resilient in tough conditions.
- Long-lasting perennial with minimal care needs.
- Cons:
- Can be invasive if not controlled through pruning or containers.
- Toxic if ingested, requiring caution around pets and children.
- Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.2/5 stars (200+ reviews). Customers appreciate its hardiness and pest control, but some warn about its invasive nature and toxicity.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Tansy’s robust growth and strong repellent properties make it a reliable choice for large gardens needing comprehensive pest control.
- Ideal Use Case/Who Should Buy: Experienced gardeners in temperate climates managing large spaces and seeking a tough, effective repellent plant.
V. Comparison Table: The Best 10 Plants to Repel Mosquitoes
| Plant Name | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Citronella Grass | $79.95 | Patios, warm climates |
| Lavender | $12.95 | Borders, herb gardens |
| Catnip | $114.10 | Pet owners, budget gardens |
| Rosemary | $21.97 | Culinary gardens, pots |
| Basil | $21.95 | Small spaces, cooking |
| Lemon Balm | $40.81 | Herb gardens, teas |
| Marigolds | $9.99 | Borders, vegetable gardens |
| Bee Balm | $17.99 | Pollinator gardens |
| Scented Geranium | $20.58 | Patios, urban spaces |
| Tansy | $33.20 | Large gardens, pest control |
Note: Prices and ratings are based on Amazon data as of August 2025. Hardiness zones, maintenance, and repellent strength vary; check product details for specifics.
VI. How to Use Mosquito-Repellent Plants Effectively
- Placement Tips: Position plants near seating areas, patios, or entryways for maximum mosquito protection. Cluster plants like basil or lemon balm for stronger scent dispersion.
- Maintenance Advice: Ensure proper watering (e.g., basil needs consistent moisture, while rosemary prefers dry conditions), prune aggressive spreaders like catnip or tansy, and use well-drained soil for lavender and geraniums.
- Complementary Strategies: Enhance protection with mosquito-repellent candles, fans to disrupt mosquito flight, or netting for high-infestation areas.
- Safety Notes: Avoid rubbing tansy on skin or allowing pets to ingest it due to toxicity. Check plant safety for households with children or animals.
VII. What to Consider When Buying Mosquito-Repellent Plants
- Climate and Hardiness: Match plants to your USDA Hardiness Zone (e.g., citronella for Zones 10–11, catnip for Zones 3–9) to ensure successful growth.
- Space and Aesthetic: Choose compact plants like basil or scented geraniums for small patios, or bold options like bee balm for larger gardens.
- Maintenance Level: Opt for low-maintenance plants like marigolds for beginners or higher-maintenance citronella for experienced gardeners.
- Budget: Seeds (e.g., marigolds, basil) are more affordable than live plants (e.g., lavender, geraniums), but live plants offer faster results.
- Additional Benefits: Prioritize plants with culinary (rosemary, basil), medicinal (lemon balm), or pollinator-attracting (bee balm, lavender) properties for added value.
VIII. FAQs About Mosquito-Repellent Plants
- How effective are plants at repelling mosquitoes compared to sprays? Plants like catnip and citronella can be highly effective when planted densely, though they work best as part of a broader pest control strategy alongside sprays or candles.
- Can these plants be grown indoors? Yes, basil, scented geraniums, and rosemary thrive in sunny indoor windowsills, but larger plants like citronella may need outdoor space.
- Are these plants safe for pets and children? Most are safe (e.g., lavender, basil), but tansy is toxic if ingested, so keep it away from pets and kids.
- How many plants do I need for effective mosquito control? Plant in clusters (e.g., 3–5 basil plants or 2–3 citronella grasses) near high-traffic areas for noticeable results.
Mosquito-repellent plants offer a natural, eco-friendly way to enjoy bite-free outdoor spaces while adding beauty and functionality to your garden. From the potent citronella grass to the versatile basil, our curated list of the best 10 plants to repel mosquitoes provides options for every budget, climate, and garden size. Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Citronella Grass for its unmatched repellent efficacy.
- Best Budget: Basil for its affordability and culinary uses.
- Best for Small Spaces: Scented Geranium for its compact, fragrant charm.
Transform your outdoor experience by choosing a plant from our list, clicking the Amazon links to purchase, and creating a mosquito-free oasis today.