Our landscapes can entice us from anywhere. From a longing to be outside while looking out the kitchen window to not wanting to go back inside while puttering in the garden, we will always be drawn. The garden can invigorate our senses, and certain plants can really get our noses going.
Fragrant plants can come in all sizes and easily fit into your yard. Below is a list of some of our favorites that we use in the landscape.
1) Agastache rupestris (Hyssop): This plant is one of the staples of our landscapes. It is a short (18” high and wide) perennial that blooms in the summer. The leaves are small and very fragrant. The scent is similar to licorice and mint. Depending on the variety, the plant will start blooming in early summer and can keep blooming until the first frost. Hummingbirds will be drawn in and come to the plants on a daily basis.
2) Lavendula (Lavender, multiple varieties): Lavender is a reliable perennial that can grow in height from 12 inches up to three feet. Purple blooms rise up from the grey leaves in early summer. Lavender plants produce a great fragrance that smells exactly like lavender. Lavender does best in fast draining soil and should not be mulched in the winter time to allow the roots to dry out.
3) Viburnum (Viburnum, multiple varieties): Viburnums’ are a variety of shrubs that are much underused. The size range of viburnums is generally from six feet high and wide up to 15 feet. Most viburnums produce highly fragrant, white flowers in the spring. The Korean Spice Viburnum can be smelled from up to 30 feet away in full bloom. After flowering, bright red fruit appear in the summer, followed by reliable fall color.
4) Philadelphus lewisii (Native Mock Orange): Native to western states and discovered by Meriwether Lewis, this drought tolerant shrub produces white, vanilla-citrus scented flowers. Different cultivars and hybrids are available and come in dwarf (four feet) to large (12 feet).
5) Hamamelis x intermedia (Witch Hazel): Witch hazel is a winter blooming shrub. During the late winter months, the witch hazel produces very unusual looking, and highly fragrant flower. Plant these where they can be seen and smelled. The witch hazel can grow to be 12 feet high and wide, so give them enough room.
There are many more fragrant plants to choose from, and make sure that when you see them, take the time to stop and smell them. It might just make your day.
