Fragrant Gardens

Fragrance makes a garden romantic and memorable.

Putting it Together 

The placement of plants with really heady scents needs careful consideration. Position your chosen perfumed plant close to where you will frequently pass by to enjoy. Many specimens can be planted in large pots near Patios or Decks for maximum enjoyment. Place scented leaved plants along paths, ready to release their fragrance as you brush against them. Plant your favourite smells by doorways, under windows and alongside seats. 

Plants for Fragrant Gardens 

The following plant lists are a guide to getting started. Many more varieties are available. Observation of what grows well in your area is suggested before making the final selection. 

Fragrant Trees for Structure and Framing 

• Conifers 
• Crab Apple (Malus) 
• Eucalyptus 
• Magnolia & Michelia 
• Paulownia 
• Pittosporum especially ‘Lemonwood’ 
• Prunus 

Fragrant Shrubs for Screening, Background and Shelter 

• Boronia 
• Christmas Box (Sarcococca) 
• Daphne 
• Lavender 
• Lemon Verbena (Aloisya) 
• Lilac (Syringa) 
• Mexican Orange Blossom (Choisya ternata) 
• Mint Bush (Prostanthera) 
• Osmanthus 
• Rhododendrons e.g. Princess Alice, John Bull, Mi Amor 
• Skimmia 

Fragrant Climbers for Adding Dimension and Atmosphere 

• Clematis montana 
• Honeysuckle (Lonicera) 
• Hoya (indoors only) 
• Jasmine varieties 
• Chilean Jasmine (Mandevillea laxa) 
• Roses (check varieties first) 
• Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum) 
• Wisteria 

Fragrant Perennials for Texture and Colouring In 

• Cherry Pie (Heliotrope) 
• Carnations, Dianthus 
• Herbs, Hosta flowers 
• Scented Geraniums 
• Phlox 
• Lily of the Valley (Convallaria) 
• Wallflowers 

Fragrant Annuals to Highlight Focal Points in the Garden or Containers 

• Alyssum 
• Mignonette 
• Night Scented Stock 
• Stock (Mathiola) 
• Sweet William 
• Tobacco Flower (Nicotiana) 
• Viola 

Fragrant Bulbs Including Tubers and Corms