Complete Gardening
Houseplants can bring a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to our living spaces, but not all of them come with pleasant fragrances. In fact, some houseplants are notorious for their less-than-desirable odors.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your indoor garden, it’s important to know which plants might bring an unwanted scent into your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore 24 houseplants that are best avoided if you prefer a sweet-smelling indoor environment.
1. Allium ursinum
Also known as wild garlic, this plant exudes a strong garlic aroma. It’s a favorite in culinary gardens but might not be ideal for indoor planting due to its potent smell.
2. Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus)
Skunk Cabbage resembles its namesake with a skunky odor that intensifies when the plant is bruised or crushed. While it’s more commonly found in the wild, some adventurous gardeners might consider it, unaware of its smell.
3. Stinkhorn Mushroom (Phallus impudicus)
Though not technically a plant, the Stinkhorn Mushroom is worth mentioning for its foul smell, resembling decaying organic matter. It’s not a plant you’d intentionally grow indoors, but it can appear in potting soil, creating an unpleasant surprise.
4. Crown Imperial (Fritillaria imperialis)
The Crown Imperial is a striking plant with bright, beautiful flowers and a distinct musky odor. While the flowers are visually appealing, the smell can be quite off-putting for indoor environments.
5. Paperwhite Narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus)
Paperwhite Narcissus is known for its strong fragrance, which some people find overwhelmingly sweet and reminiscent of old cheese. It’s a popular holiday plant but one that might not suit everyone’s olfactory preferences.
6. Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea)
The Carrion Flower attracts pollinators with the smell of rotting meat. While interesting for its unique pollination strategy, this isn’t a plant you’d want inside your home if you’re sensitive to strong odors.
7. Bulbophyllum orchids
Several species of Bulbophyllum orchids produce a smell that can range from mildly unpleasant to downright stinky. They are fascinating for orchid enthusiasts but require a bit of tolerance for their scent.
8. Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
Calla Lilies are beautiful with their elegant blooms, but they can emit a musty scent when they start to wilt. They make lovely cut flowers but may not be ideal for long-term indoor display.
9. Calochortus amabilis
Known as the Diogenes’ Lantern, this plant has a subtle yet unpleasant odor. While it offers distinctive blooms, it’s best kept outdoors to avoid bringing its smell inside.
10. Starfish Flower (Stapelia hirsuta)
Similar to the Carrion Flower, the Starfish Flower emits an odor akin to decaying meat to attract flies for pollination. While visually intriguing, it’s not the best choice for scent-sensitive homes.
11. Fish Plant (Nematanthus gregarious)
Also known as the Goldfish Plant, this houseplant emits a subtle fishy odor, especially when its leaves are rubbed. It’s quirky and attractive but might not be for everyone.
12. Mouse Plant (Arisarum proboscideum)
The Mouse Plant is named for its small, mouse-like flowers, which emit a mild but distinctive odor. It’s an amusing plant to observe but may not suit everyone indoors.
13. Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro is primarily grown for its edible roots, but the plant itself can emit a strong, earthy odor. It’s a staple in many tropical gardens but might be too pungent for indoor cultivation.
14. Pelargonium graveolens
Also known as scented geranium, this plant emits a strong fragrance that can be pleasant or overwhelming, depending on personal preference. It’s a favorite for essential oils but may be too intense for some indoors.
15. Citrus Trees (Lemon, Lime, Orange)
While citrus blossoms are famously fragrant, the leaves and bark can emit a strong odor that some people find unpleasant. They’re delightful for their fruit but consider the scent they bring into your home.
16. Sauromatum venosum
Known as the Voodoo Lily, this plant emits a strong odor similar to animal dung to attract pollinators. It’s a conversation starter for sure but might be too smelly for indoor spaces.
17. Lion’s Ear (Leonotis leonurus)
Lion’s Ear is admired for its vibrant blooms but can emit a strong earthy scent when handled. It’s a bold addition to gardens but might not be the best choice near windows or doors.
18. Petasites japonicus
Known as Japanese butterbur, this plant has a powerful, musty smell. It’s often used in traditional medicine gardens but is probably best kept out of the house.
19. Dracunculus vulgaris
Commonly called the Dragon Arum, it releases a smell akin to rotting flesh to attract flies for pollination. It’s an eye-catching plant for outdoor display rather than indoor enjoyment.
20. Acorus calamus
Also known as Sweet Flag, this plant gives off a spicy, sweet scent that can be overpowering in confined spaces. It’s traditionally used in herbal remedies but might be too much for indoor areas.
21. Fritillaria meleagris
This charming plant, also known as the Snake’s Head Fritillary, can emit a faintly unpleasant scent. It’s a delight in meadow gardens but consider its smell before bringing it indoors.
22. Brugmansia
Brugmansia, or Angel’s Trumpet, is known for its intoxicating fragrance at night. While the scent can be delightful outdoors, it may become overpowering and cloying indoors.
23. Houttuynia cordata
Commonly known as fish mint, this plant has an intense fishy odor that can be quite off-putting. It’s used in some cuisines but is best handled with care due to its strong smell.
24. Lavandula stoechas
Also known as Spanish Lavender, this plant has a unique fragrance that some find medicinal and unpleasant. It’s adored for its hardiness but may not be the best choice for scent-sensitive noses.