When it comes to choosing perennials for their strong fragrance, there are several options to consider. These plants not only add beauty to your garden but also delight your senses with their delightful scents. Here are some perennials that have a strong smell:
1. Achillea (Yarrows): Yarrows are known for their feathery foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. Some varieties, like Achillea filipendulina ‘Cloth of Gold,’ emit a pleasant aroma that attracts bees and butterflies.
2. Anthemis (Marguerite Daisy): Marguerite daisies are low-maintenance perennials with aromatic, fern-like foliage. Anthemis tinctoria ‘Sauce Hollandaise’ produces bright yellow flowers and has a lovely scent reminiscent of chamomile.
3. Aquilegia (Columbine): Columbines are beloved for their unique, bell-shaped flowers that come in various colors. Some species, like Aquilegia vulgaris ‘Nora Barlow,’ have a sweet fragrance that adds a delightful touch to any garden.
4. Aruncus (Goatsbeard): Goatsbeard is a tall perennial with feathery, creamy white flowers that resemble astilbe blooms. Aruncus dioicus emits a pleasant scent, similar to meadowsweet, making it a fantastic addition to a fragrant garden.
5. Cimicifuga (Black Snakeroot): Also known as Bugbane, Cimicifuga racemosa produces tall spires of white flowers with a strong, sweet scent. The fragrance of this perennial is often described as vanilla or bubblegum-like.
6. Chrysanthemums: Many chrysanthemum varieties, particularly the older cultivars, have a distinctive fragrance. The scent can range from spicy to musky, adding a unique aroma to your garden.
7. Clematis Vine: While most people associate clematis with their stunning flowers, some varieties also have a pleasant fragrance. Clematis montana, for example, produces clusters of small, fragrant white or pink flowers.
8. Eremurus (Foxtail Lily): Foxtail lilies are impressive perennials with tall flower spikes that resemble fox tails. Some species, like Eremurus bungei, have a sweet fragrance that fills the air, attracting bees and butterflies.
9. Erysimum (Wallflower): Wallflowers are compact perennials with clusters of fragrant flowers in various colors. Erysimum ‘Bowles’s Mauve’ is particularly known for its long-lasting blooms and delightful spicy scent.
10. Filipendula (Meadowsweet): Meadowsweet is a perennial with showy, frothy flower clusters and fern-like foliage. Filipendula ulmaria emits a strong, sweet scent similar to almonds or honey, making it a favorite among pollinators.
11. Perennial Geraniums: Many perennial geranium varieties have scented foliage that releases a delightful fragrance when brushed or crushed. Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Ingwersen’s Variety’ is one example, with a lovely spicy scent.
It’s worth noting that the strength of the fragrance can vary between cultivars and even within the same species. Additionally, personal preferences for scents may differ, so it’s always a good idea to visit a local nursery or garden center to experience the fragrances firsthand before making your selections.
In my own garden, I have incorporated several of these fragrant perennials. The sweet scent of the black snakeroot and the spicy aroma of the wallflowers create a captivating sensory experience as I stroll through the garden. The delicate fragrance of the columbines and the meadowsweet adds a touch of romance to the air, making my outdoor space a truly enchanting retreat.
Remember, when choosing fragrant perennials, consider their bloom time, growth habits, and compatibility with your garden’s conditions. Whether you want a garden filled with sweet, spicy, or musky scents, incorporating these perennials will surely elevate your gardening experience.
