Do Citronella Plants Keep Bugs Away?
Citronella plants can help keep bugs away, but they are not as strong as citronella oil or candles. The leaves release a light scent only when crushed or brushed. For best results, combine live plants with other repellent methods.
What Is a Citronella Plant?
When people say "citronella plant," they usually mean one of two things. The first is true citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus or winterianus). This is the plant that produces the oil used in candles and sprays. The second is a scented geranium called Pelargonium citrosum, also sold as "citronella plant." It has a lemony smell but contains very little of the actual citronella oil compound.
True citronella grass looks like tall, clumping grass with broad blades. The scented geranium looks more like a flowering plant with lacy leaves. Both are often sold in garden centers during spring.
How Do Citronella Plants Repel Bugs?
The bug-repelling power comes from natural oils inside the leaves. When you crush, rub, or brush against the plant, it releases a strong lemony scent. Insects like mosquitoes, flies, and gnats dislike this smell. The scent confuses them and masks the carbon dioxide and other chemicals that attract bugs to people.
However, the plant must be disturbed to release the oil. Sitting next to a potted citronella plant that nobody touches will do almost nothing. You need to crush a leaf, rub it on your skin, or place the plant where people or wind brush against it often.
Do Citronella Plants Really Work Against Mosquitoes?
Research shows that citronella oil works well against mosquitoes. But the live plant itself is much weaker. A study by the American Mosquito Control Association found that citronella grass reduced mosquito landing by about 40% when people sat nearby and the leaves were crushed. Without crushing, the effect dropped to nearly zero.
So yes, citronella plants can help a little, but don't expect them to clear an entire yard. They work best as a modest addition to other repellent strategies, like fans, screens, or DEET-based sprays.
What Bugs Do Citronella Plants Repel?
Citronella scent mainly works on flying insects. The most commonly repelled bugs include:
- Mosquitoes – the primary target
- Flies – house flies and biting flies dislike the smell
- Gnats – small flying pests stay away
- No-see-ums – tiny biting midges are also deterred
It is not effective against ants, spiders, ticks, or roaches. For those, you need different control methods.
How to Use Citronella Plants for Best Results
To get the most out of your citronella plant, follow these steps:
- Place them near seating areas – on patios, decks, or beside outdoor chairs. People sitting nearby will brush against the leaves.
- Crush a few leaves before guests arrive – rub them between your fingers to release oil. You can also rub leaves on your clothing or at the edge of a table.
- Put plants in windy spots – wind can help carry the scent around without needing direct contact.
- Use multiple plants – one small pot is not enough. Group three to five plants together for a stronger effect.
- Replace them annually – true citronella grass is a perennial in warm climates, but potted plants often lose strength after a season. Buy fresh plants each year.
Are There Better Alternatives to Citronella Plants?
If you want stronger bug protection, consider these options:
- Citronella candles and torches – they burn oil directly and spread scent over a wider area. Look for candles with real citronella oil, not just fragrance. Search for top-rated citronella candles on Amazon.
- Citronella oil sprays – you can apply diluted oil to your skin (always follow label directions).
- Fans – a simple box fan on low setting can blow mosquitoes away because they are weak fliers.
- Neem oil or lemon eucalyptus oil – both are natural repellents approved by the CDC. Check out lemon eucalyptus repellent options.
For serious mosquito problems, DEET or picaridin sprays are most effective. Citronella plants alone won't protect you in heavily infested areas.
Where to Place Citronella Plants for Maximum Effect
Location matters a lot. Here are the best spots:
- Doorways and entry points – bugs are less likely to fly inside if the scent greets them.
- Around dining tables – place pots on the table or directly underneath it. As people move, they stir the leaves.
- Along walking paths – brush against the plants as you walk.
- In window boxes – near open windows helps keep bugs from coming in.
Avoid putting them in a far corner of the yard where nobody goes. The plants need human contact to work.
What About Citronella Geraniums vs True Citronella Grass?
Garden centers often label scented geraniums as "citronella plants" because they smell lemony. But they contain only trace amounts of the actual citronella compound. Tests show they are much less effective than true citronella grass at repelling mosquitoes.
If you want real bug-fighting power, buy true citronella grass. Look for the scientific name Cymbopogon on the tag. The scented geranium is still a nice-smelling plant, but don't rely on it for pest control.
Can You Use Citronella Leaves Directly on Skin?
You can rub crushed citronella grass leaves on your skin, but it's not a great idea for a few reasons. First, the oil concentration is low, so the effect is very weak. Second, the plant material can cause skin irritation in some people. Third, it stains clothes and feels sticky.
A much better option is to use commercial citronella oil or lotion that contains citronella. These products are tested for safety and effectiveness. Browse natural citronella oil products on Amazon.
Simple Checklist for Using Citronella Plants Against Bugs
Use this quick checklist to see if you're using your citronella plant the right way:
| Step | Done? |
|---|---|
| Choose true citronella grass, not a scented geranium | ☐ |
| Plant in a large pot or in sunny soil | ☐ |
| Place near busy areas (patio, door, walkway) | ☐ |
| Crush a few leaves before outdoor time | ☐ |
| Use at least 3 plants for a small zone | ☐ |
| Combine with fans, candles, or spray for full protection | ☐ |
| Water regularly and fertilize monthly | ☐ |
If you tick every box, your citronella plants will give you a small but noticeable reduction in bugs. They look nice, smell great, and offer a natural touch. Just remember they are not a miracle cure.
Should You Still Grow Citronella Plants?
Absolutely – if you enjoy gardening and like the idea of a mild, natural repellent. They are easy to grow in warm weather, make your yard smell fresh, and can keep a few mosquitoes away. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies when they flower.
But if you have a serious mosquito outbreak or plan to sit outside for long periods, you need stronger protection. Use citronella plants as part of a layered defense that includes screens, fans, and approved repellents.