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Deer tolerant flowers


31 Best-Deer Resistant Flowers and Plants to Grow

These varieties stand up to deer with beautiful blooms

By

Jamie McIntosh

Jamie McIntosh

Jamie McIntosh has written about gardening and special occasion flowers for the Spruce since 2011. She has more than 20 years of experience caring for flowers and plants. She was a feature writer for Organic Gardening at Suite101, where she won awards for her writing.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 11/02/22

Reviewed by

Debra LaGattuta

Reviewed by Debra LaGattuta

Debra LaGattuta is a gardening expert with three decades of experience in perennial and flowering plants, container gardening, and raised bed vegetable gardening. She is a Master Gardener and lead gardener in a Plant-A-Row, which is a program that offers thousands of pounds of organically-grown vegetables to local food banks. Debra is a member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.

Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board

Fact checked by

Alexandra Kay

Fact checked by Alexandra Kay

Alexandra Kay is a writer, fact-checker, researcher, and editor who checks The Spruce articles for accuracy and adds source citations. Alex frequently writes for b2b and b2c publications. When she isn't writing or fact-checking for print or online articles, Alex is an associate professor of English at a community college.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

Deer have become a major irritant to suburban and exurban gardeners, leading more homeowners to seek out deer-resistant flowers and plants and avoid the headache of dealing with half-eaten flora and greenery. The animals are more prevalent due to human encroachment on their territory and attracted to the soft, easy-to-find vegetation most people prefer in their gardens. There are many ways to rid your garden of deer, but many of these solutions are ineffective, expensive, or distasteful enough to deter the gardener as much as the deer. If you cannot keep deer away from the garden, you can plant annuals or perennials that deer won't eat.

Lavender, poppies, daffodils, vincas, and bleeding hearts are among the spring and summer flowering plants that deer hate the most. Many deer-resistant flowers for pots or container gardens to consider are coneflowers, daffodils, and verbena. Meanwhile, some flowering bushes that deer do not eat include rose of Sharon and butterfly bush.

Flowers that keep away deer are often overly fragrant, toxic, or have a rough or odd texture. If you're wondering what smell deer hate the most, marigold, sage, and lavender are among the smelliest to deer. Deer do not eat marigolds or zinnias but if you have magnolias, shelter them from deer; they favor magnolia blooms.

Read on for details about many more deer-resistant flower and plant options for sun, shade, and various seasons.  

Tip

As you plan your garden, look carefully at the sun and soil requirements for each of these plants. There's a good chance you'll be able to create a deer-proof garden that will bloom from early spring to late summer.

11 Deer-Resistant Flower Bulbs for Your Garden

Article Sources

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. Deer-Tolerant Ornamental Plants. University of Georgia Extension

  2. Krzyżanowska-Kowalczyk, Justyna, et al. Pulmonaria Obscura and Pulmonaria Officinalis Extracts as Mitigators of Peroxynitrite-Induced Oxidative Stress and Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors–In Vitro and In Silico Studies.  Molecules, vol. 26, no. 3, Jan. 2021, p. 631. DOI.org (Crossref), doi:10.3390/molecules26030631.

  3. Plants. California Poison Control System (CPCS).

  4. Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance. Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

17 shrubs, perennials and annuals |

(Image credit: Robert Muckley / Getty Images)

If deer are prevalent in your area, then deer resistant plants are an essential addition to your garden.

While deer are shy animals, when hungry they will often stray into gardens and eat prized plants – putting a huge dent in your backyard ideas.

‘One thing to keep in mind is that if the deer are hungry, they will eat just about anything. So even though a plant may be considered deer resistant, it may still be targeted,’ says Jo Ellen Meyers-Sharp, gardening coach and creator of Hoosiergardener , and a member of the National Garden Bureau .

This makes it important to also consider how hardy your plants are, and whether they will easily recover from a deer munching session.

‘Gardeners don’t spend money on their plants to have them be a salad bar for deer, so many gardeners use repellents to keep deer away.’

While you can’t create a 100 per cent deer-proof garden, there is a wide voice of deer resistant plants available to help deter them and minimize any damage.

Best deer resistant plants

Whether you are looking for evergreen shrubs to serve as the backbone of your garden scheme, or annuals to fill in gaps in pots and borders, there are some wonderful deer resistant plants to choose from.

We asked the experts for their top picks.

Deer resistant shrubs

Shrubs provide much of the structure and interest in our gardens year round. Some are evergreen, adding color and interest in every season.

1. Panicle hydrangea

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Panicle hydrangeas – or Hydrangea paniculata – are moderately fast-growing shrubs that are not favored by deer. However, even if they do have a munch, the plants are hardy, so should recover well.

‘Panicle hydrangeas have flowers in the white to pink to light red range. They bloom during the summer months and the flowers last through fall, typically fading to a handsome light tan as temperatures drop before winter,’ says Sam Schmitz, horticulturist for Ball Horticulture .

‘There are many different varieties that range in mature size from 2ft x 2ft to 8ftx8ft. These shrubs are best in full sun but can also tolerate light shade.’

Make sure you know how to grow hydrangeas to get the best out of them.

2. Osmanthus

(Image credit: Clive Nichols / Getty Images)

‘Osmanthus is an easy-to-grow shrub that can tolerate many different soils and light levels. It is often used for hedging and privacy screens,’ says Michael Giannelli of East Hampton Gardens .

It produces a cluster of tiny white flowers that emit a sweet fragrance similar to magnolias and gardenias.

Its scent and the plant’s spiny leaves also make it unappealing to deer. ‘This has the consequence of making them difficult to handle, although there are smoother varieties available, like Carl Wheeler,’ adds Giannelli.

You can grow osmanthus in USDA zones 7-10.

3. Lavender

(Image credit: Adrian Wombwell / Getty Images)

Lavender’s scent may be heavenly to us, but deer tend to dislike it, making it an ideal shrub for your garden.

‘Lavender grows best in well-drained soil with full sun exposure,’ says Lindsey Hyland, founder of Urban Organic Yield .

‘It does not require a lot of maintenance, but can sometimes be susceptible to pests like mites and aphids.’

Learning how to grow lavender is easy for gardeners in most climates, however the plant dislikes humidity. Expect to be able to grow it in ​​zones 5a to 9a.

4. Ninebark

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Ninebark – or Physocarpus opulifolius – is a fast-growing, medium to large shrub that typically produces frothy white flowers in late spring and early summer.

‘To add to this, the plants come in foliage colors of bronze-red, burgundy, purple, chartreuse, and a few others,’ says Schmitz. ‘

'These shrubs are quite lovely and very easy to maintain. They are happiest planted in full sun but can tolerate a few hours of shade a day.’

Ninebark is also a great choice for colder climates, and can be planted in USDA zones 2-7.

5. Japanese andromeda

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Japanese andromeda – or pieris – has a distinctive scent that some gardeners like and others avoid – however, it smells particularly unpleasant to deer.

‘Andromeda is sometimes referred to as the lily of the valley plant as its early spring flowers look similar,’ says Giannelli

‘It is a great evergreen shrub that changes color as the season progresses, setting long clusters of buds in fall for great winter interest.’

However, bear in mind that andromeda are fussy about soil type. ’They need very well-drained acidic soil,’ adds Giannelli.

If your soil is more alkaline, then the best thing to do is to grow them in containers. They should thrive in USDA zones 5-8.

6. Red twig dogwood

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

'Red twig dogwoods are mainly grown for their attractive foliage and bright red stems,’ says Schmitz. These particularly come into their own in winter.

The shrubs are deer resistant plants, but if deer do try to eat them, the good news is that red twig dogwoods are fast growing and tolerate harsh pruning, meaning they will easily spring back.

‘They are adaptable to a number of environmental conditions. You can grow them in full sun or up to 50 per cent shade,’ adds Schmitz.

‘Bear in mind that red twig dogwoods can become large over time, but maintaining their size is simple. These can be pruned any time of the year and can be transplanted quite easily.’

Keep on top of maintenance by removing old or diseased canes and keep the shrub looking tidy. 

Grow them in USDA zones 3-8, and also consider other types of dogwoods that can be used, which range from medium shrubs to small trees.

Deer resistant perennials

There are many deer resistant perennials available that will make a beautiful feature in your borders. Discover the experts' top picks.

1. Buddleia

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Also known as butterfly bushes for being highly attractive to these precious pollinators, buddleia are not appealing to deer.

‘Though shrubs, buddleia behave more like woody perennials, as in colder areas they dye back almost to the ground each winter and regrow their full size through the season,’ explains Schmitz. 

If the plant doesn’t completely die back, it’s a good idea to cut it right back anyway.

‘They grow quickly as they come back up and can reach 6-7 foot tall in a single season. The flowers can be white, blue, cranberry, purple, lavender, and pink with many shades in between.’

Buddleia require full sun in order to thrive, and can be grown in USDA zones 4-10, depending on the variety. 

As it grows so fast, ensure you know how to prune buddleia to keep it under control and looking its best.

2. Purple coneflower

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Also known as echinacea, purple coneflower is a popular plant among pollinators – but its fragrance and spiny center make it unappealing to deer.

‘A native perennial, purple coneflower prefers moist, well-drained soils but is drought tolerant once established,’ says Millie Davenport, director of the Clemson Extension Home and Garden Information Center .

The plants die back to the ground over winter, and can grow up to 4 feet tall in the growing season.

‘Not only a great nectar source for pollinating insects, birds also enjoy the seedheads of purple coneflower in the fall,’ adds Davenport.

You should be able to grow purple coneflower in USDA zones 3-9.

3. Bearded iris

(Image credit: Unsplash)

The scent and taste of bearded iris is unpalatable to deer, but its exotic-looking blooms are a beautiful addition to the spring and summer garden.

‘Some varieties, such as Immortality, rebloom in late summer and early fall,’ says Meyers-Sharp.

‘Each flower can be one color or it can have two or more colors.’

You can grow bearded iris in a sunny spot in well-draining soil, in USDA zones 3-9 – learn how to grow irises properly to make sure they flower. 

‘Cut back the leaves in the fall,’ adds Meyers-Sharp. ‘When planting, make sure the rhizome (underground stem) is right at, or slightly above the soil surface. If planted too deep, the iris will not bloom.’

4. Baptisia

(Image credit: Getty Images)

'Baptista – or false indigo – is a perennial herb native to much of central and eastern North America, and is a great deer resistant plant,’ says Davenport.

It prefers moist, well-drained soil but is drought tolerant once established. You should be able to grow it in zones 5-9.

‘Though disliked by deer, it is a host plant for the larvae of several butterfly species, including orange sulphur, clouded sulphur, frosted elfin, eastern tailed blue, hoary edge, and wild indigo duskywing,’ adds Davenport.

Deer resistant annuals

Don't forget annuals when choosing deer resistant plants for your garden – these are ideal for filling in gaps and many have a long flowering season.

1. Cosmos

(Image credit: Thompson & Morgan)

Not only are cosmos deer resistant plants, but they are beloved of pollinators, make great cut flowers, and fill out summer borders wonderfully.

‘Cosmos are beautiful airy plants that thrive in full sun, although they’re fine with some shade too,’ says Teri Knight, radio show presenter, and founder of the Garden Bite podcast and website .

‘They are easy to grow handling hot, dry conditions, and you can grow them from seed or potted plants.’

It’s so easy to learn how to grow cosmos as an annual in most climates, and they make such an impact in the garden. Choose from dazzling pinks through buttercup yellow and purest white.

2. Flowering tobacco

(Image credit: Getty Images)

‘Flowering tobacco – or Nicotiana alata – has wonderfully fragrant flowers, especially at night, so plant in a sunny area where you can enjoy the perfume,’ says Meyers-Sharp.  

However, deer won’t enjoy their heavenly fragrance quite so much, which makes them a great deer resistant plant.

‘Hummingbirds, hummingbird moths and other night pollinators also visit these native plants,’ adds Meyers-Sharp. 

‘Nicotiana sylvestris, or woodland flowering tobacco, tolerates shade and is also fragrant.’

As old-fashioned plants, flowering tobacco are also a great addition to your cottage garden ideas, working well in borders and containers.

3. Dusty miller

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Though technically a herbaceous perennial, dusty miller – or Senecio cineraria – is usually grown as an annual, and is prized for its silvery grey foliage that acts as the perfect foil for nearby flowers. 

‘Dusty Miller is such a fantastic silver plant that will highlight the colors of other plants,’ says Knight.

It’s adaptable to various soil types, and can cope well with drought-like conditions. Being a Mediterranean plant, it does like full sun, so don’t plant it in the shade.

‘Plant potted plants in the ground or in a container that has good drainage,’ adds Knight.

4. Lantana

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Lantana is another perennial that is grown as a summer annual. ‘If you live in the south and south-west, you may find it to be winter hardy,’ says Meyers-Sharp. 

Due to the flowers’ strong fragrance and the plant’s rough texture, lantana is usually avoided by deer. However, it is a magnet for pollinators and hummingbirds. 

‘Lantana can take about as much heat and sun as you want to give it. It’s also fairly drought tolerant,’ adds Meyers-Sharp.

It’s ideal for adding to colorful borders and also grows beautifully in containers.

Deer resistant plants for shade

'It’s fairly easy to find deer resistant plants that love the sun, but shade plants can be tricky,' says Knight.

Luckily there are a few great choices to add to shady spots in the garden.

1. Bleeding heart

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Also known as Dicentra spectabilis, bleeding heart is a shade-tolerant herbaceous perennial named for its heart-shaped flowers that is repellant to deer.  

Native to woodlands, it pops up in borders in the spring giving much-needed color, before dying back just in time for the summer showstoppers to take its place.

‘Bleeding heart is an old-fashioned plant with plenty of appeal to last,’ says Knight. ‘There are many cultivars now including ‘Golden Hearts Bleeding’ with its chartreuse leaves.

‘Growing to a compact 2ft x 2ft, this beauty tucked in around your hostas just might be able to give them some protection.’

You can grow bleeding heart in USDA zones 3-9.

2. Ferns

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Lush leafy ferns tend to be overlooked by deer, but make a lovely textural addition to a shade garden.

‘I particularly like autumn fern, Christmas fern and Japanese painted fern – their height reaches anything from 10-36 inches tall,’ says Davenport.

‘Ferns prefer moist, well-drained soil high in organic matter.’

Their hardiness is dependent on the variety, but you should be able to find ferns to grow in as low as zone 2.

3. Hellebores

(Image credit: Future)

As well as offering winter interest to gardens, hellebores are also highly deer resistant. Evergreen plants with jewel-colored flowers, they will tolerate dry shade.

‘Depending on the variety, hellebores bloom from early winter into June, and they even bloom in snow,’ says Meyers-Sharp.

It’s easy to learn how to grow hellebores , with varieties suitable for USDA zones 3-9.

‘A lot of gardeners trim off the winter-damaged leaves in spring as the plants begin to bloom, but it’s not necessary,’ says Meyers-Sharp.

What plants do deer hate the most?

'Deer generally dislike plants with aromatic foliage, such as rosemary and sage,' says Hyland. 'They also avoid statuesque plants such as yews, hollies, and boxwoods.'

Anything spiny or fuzzy will also be unpalatable to deer – so consider a plant's texture.

What plants do deer eat the most?

Deer tend to adapt well to their local habitat and enjoy many of the plants that are grown there. They particularly enjoy eating tulips and hostas.

'In rural areas, they tend to browse crops such as soybeans, grains, vegetables and fruits,' says Davenport.

'However, the bottom line is that no plant is deer-proof. They prefer some plants over others, but they will eat what is available when they have no other choice.'

For more information, see the Clemson Extension Home & Garden Information Center Website and HGIC Deer Resistant Plants for the Landscape- Annuals & Perennials.

As editor of Period Living, Britain's best-selling period homes magazine, Melanie loves the charm of older properties. I live in a rural village just outside the Cotswolds in England, so am lucky to be surrounded by beautiful homes and countryside, where I enjoy exploring. Having worked in the industry for almost two decades, Melanie is interested in all aspects of homes and gardens. Her previous roles include working on Real Homes and Homebuilding & Renovating, and she has also contributed to Gardening Etc. She has an English degree and has also studied interior design. Melanie frequently writes for Homes & Gardens about property restoration and gardening.

Deer resistant perennials - I Know

Echinacea is deer resistant.

While the selection of deer-resistant perennials is not reliable, it can discourage deer from snacking on your flower garden. In rural areas and suburbs, deer are the main pests of gardens. A hungry deer can devastate a garden overnight, eating bushes and flowers right up to the stumps. Choosing unpalatable plants, deer move to another place for lunch.

Selection of deer-resistant perennials

No plant is truly 'deer resistant'. Hungry deer are known to eat shrubs and tree bark. But some plants are not very palatable to deer. They may nibble on them from time to time, but they generally don't eat through an entire garden in one night.

Spring blooming flowers

Spring can be the worst time for reindeer. If your area has had a particularly harsh winter, deer may be hungrier in early spring and seek out any green plants for food. Some flowers that bloom in early spring are usually deer resistant. These include daffodils, which, although technically bulbs, come back year after year. Daffodils are also resistant to other animals, such as squirrels, who tend to dig up other bulbs, such as tulips, for snacking. Other common spring flowering perennials that deer usually leave alone include primrose (Primula), bleeding heart (Dicentra), lungwort (Pulmonaria), and false indigo (Baptisia). Peonies (Paeonia) are also deer resistant. Deer not only do not like flowers, but also do not eat foliage. nine0003

Summer blooming deer-resistant flowers

During the summer months, deer have plenty to choose from in the wild. Grass and clover, two of their favorite foods, are usually plentiful. However, deer can still nibble on tempting flowers, so choosing summer-blooming perennials that deer don't like deters them from damaging the flowers.

Many deer-resistant summer blooms are available. These include:

Deer guard the garden

The only way to keep deer out of the garden is to build an eight-foot fence or a smaller fence with an electric wire on top. Deer can easily jump over a standard garden fence, but the addition of electrical wire often keeps them out of the garden.

Some products repel deer but may contain harsh chemicals. Many home remedies also keep deer away in the garden, such as by placing bars of soap or garlic around the plants, tufts of dog or human hair, or other objects with a strong predatory scent. nine0003

Deer are resourceful and agile, and no deer scaring method works 100% of the time. But by choosing deer-resistant perennials and other plants, you've already done a lot to keep deer out of your garden. Deer may nibble on such plants to taste them, but once they get a taste, they will likely leave them alone.

Is scaevola poisonous to dogs? – Celebrity.fm

Scaevola 'Blue Fan' No toxic effects reported for . nine0003

So, are fan flowers perennial?

They are perennials in USDA zones 9-11, but must be grown as annuals elsewhere. Plants typically grow only 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm)… Fan flower plants grow up to 24 inches (60 cm), making them attractive ground covers in well-drained soil.

With that in mind, which plant is safe for dogs? nine0003

15 dog-safe plants you can add to almost any garden right now

Besides, what happens if dogs eat lavender? nine0003

Lavender, a plant, does contain small amounts of a compound called linalool, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. … Symptoms of lavender poisoning may include vomiting, inability to defecate, swollen and painful abdomen, loss of appetite and fever.

Which plants are most poisonous to dogs?

The following plants are the most toxic to dogs and should never be given to them under any circumstances:

Secondly, how are you fond of flowers?

Pruning: Fanflowers do not need a dead head but may benefit from pinching off the stems if they become too long. This will help stimulate new growth and make your plants look fuller. nine0003

Contents

Are fan flowers resistant to deer?

This explains why it is commonly known as the fan flower because of the shape of their flowers. … Scaevola will bloom continuously throughout the season, weather permitting. Key features of this variety are heat and drought tolerance, deer resistance and no reserves required.

Do hummingbirds like balloon flowers?

Although they are most attracted to red, pink or reddish-orange inflorescences , they also drink nectar from flowers of all colors, including white jasmine (used as a fragrant patio plant in summer), blue and white scabioses, blue delphiniums and blue, pink or purple platycodons (balloons ).

Is rosemary bad for dogs?

Yes ! Rosemary is good for your dog's health and can even be used as a natural flea repellant. It also contains antioxidants that may prevent cancer and heart disease, and is helpful for your dog's digestive issues, given its antimicrobial properties. Rosemary can also improve memory and mood. nine0003

Is the bamboo palm a houseplant?

Light Requirements: Bamboo palm will grow faster in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate bright fluorescent light as well as medium light. Locations: Bamboo Palm is an excellent houseplant and loves shady outdoor areas.

What kind of flowers can dogs eat?

Rose petals, violets, sunflower petals, pansies, snapdragons and some marigolds. nine0064 all can be eaten raw by dogs and humans. Warning: It's important to make sure your flowers aren't treated with insecticides, fungicides, or weed killers, as these are poisons that can cause serious harm to you and your dog.

Can lavender be poisonous?

Lavender oil is not normally toxic to adults. by inhalation during aromatherapy or by ingestion in smaller amounts. It may cause a reaction in children who swallow small amounts. The main effects are associated with allergic skin reactions. nine0003

What scents soothe dogs?

Since barking and excessive activity are commonly signs of stress in shelter dogs, not to mention unwanted behavior in the eyes of many adopters, the study concluded that exposure to vanilla, coconut, valerian and ginger scents has the potential to reduce stress in shelter dogs.

Is lavender good for dogs?

Essential oils, safe for pets. While most essential oils should be avoided by pet parents, some are safe for pets when used properly. For example, lavender (when used in moderation and at the right concentration) is probably the safest essential oil for dogs and cats .

Which flower is poisonous to humans?

Nerium Oleander Sweet Smelling Killer

The elegant Nerium Oleander, with crimson, purple or creamy white flowers, is one of the most toxic plants in the world. Every part of the plant, from the stem to the sap, is incredibly poisonous if swallowed.

Is bamboo poisonous to dogs?

For true bamboo Bambusoideae, is non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Fun fact: Bamboo leaves can contain up to 22% protein, so it's even good for them! The protein content varies from species to species and even depends on the age of the leaves.

Virginia Creeper poisonous?

Although virginia creeper leaves do not contain urushiol, an irritating oil found in all parts of poison ivy, the juice can irritate very sensitive individuals. The berries are poisonous because they contain a high concentration of oxalic acid, which is moderately toxic to humans and dogs. nine0003

What are fairy flowers?

Fairy Flowers ® He unique plants that are specially designed for miniature gardens. Plants in fabulous colors ® have been individually selected because they either stay small or can be trimmed to stay tiny. … With proper pruning and care, Fairy Flowers ® will thrive in small spaces indefinitely.

How do you care for fairy flowers? nine0029

In early spring, plant fairy lily bulbs two to three times their diameter deep, about 4 inches apart, in well-drained loam. Cover with 1 to 3 inches of mulch, which helps slow water evaporation in hot, dry weather. These fast growing semi-evergreens are somewhat thriving. full sun .

What is wavy petunia?

Wave Petunias available Aggressive ground cover annuals that can be grown from seed - often makes these plants a more affordable option. Wavy petunias, due to their spreading nature, grow beautifully in flowerbeds and gardens; they also grow well in pots or hanging baskets.

Why is my Scaevola dying?

Overwatering . While other plants can wilt in hot, dry conditions, lack of water will usually cause the skevola to wilt, unless the soil is too dry. If the scaevola withers, the problem is with excessive watering or constant soil moisture. nine0003

Are bacopa deer resistant?

About bacopa

Low maintenance, self-cleaning and deer resistant .

What is the favorite flower of a hummingbird?

Bright tubular flowers contain the most nectar and are especially attractive to hummingbirds.

Learn more