There’s something magical about summer scents that instantly bring back memories of sunny days, warm beaches, and refreshing drinks. Imagine having a garden filled with plants that actually smell like sunscreen, evoking those carefree moments under the sun. On the other hand, some plants give off a crisp, bright aroma that reminds you of freshly squeezed lemonade—perfect for cooling off during those hot summer afternoons.
This list of 17 summer plants splits perfectly between those two nostalgic scents. The 8 plants that smell like sunscreen carry subtle, creamy notes that transport you straight to the poolside, while the 9 that smell like fresh lemonade burst with zesty, citrusy fragrances that awaken your senses. Both groups bring a refreshing twist to your garden, making your outdoor space a true summer sanctuary.
Whether you’re looking to recreate the feeling of a beach day or add a splash of citrusy zest to your backyard, these plants are ideal for capturing the essence of summer. They’re easy to grow and will fill your garden with aromas that make you smile every time you step outside.
Gardenia
Gardenias are a symbol of grace and elegance, and their creamy white blooms are a staple in many gardens. With a fragrance that conjures up images of warm, sandy beaches and tropical getaways, they often remind one of sunscreen’s comforting scent.
These flowers thrive in warm climates, flourishing in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Their intoxicating aroma is both soothing and nostalgic, making them popular in perfumes and lotions.
A gardenia bush can be a stunning addition to any outdoor space, offering both visual and olfactory appeal. They’re also known for their delicate nature.
Hoya Carnosa
The Hoya Carnosa, often known as the wax plant, is a delightful addition to any home or garden, bringing with it the scent of childhood summers spent by the pool. Its waxy, star-shaped flowers are not only beautiful but emit a fragrance similar to sunscreen.
Native to Eastern Asia and Australia, this plant is highly adaptable, thriving indoors and outdoors. It’s perfect for hanging baskets where its vines can trail gracefully.
The sweet, nostalgic aroma released by its blooms can transport you back to simpler, sun-soaked days. It’s a low-maintenance plant, ideal for beginners.
Plumeria
Plumeria, a quintessential tropical flower, might remind you of a favorite summertime lotion. Its vibrant blossoms come in shades of pink, white, and yellow, painting a picture of paradise.
The scent is sweet and creamy, reminiscent of sunscreens that promise sun-kissed skin. Native to Central America, Plumerias thrive in warm, sunny locations with well-drained soil.
These flowers are often used in Hawaiian leis, symbolizing positivity and warmth. Whether grown in gardens or as potted plants, they bring an atmosphere of relaxed island living into any setting. They’re a visual and aromatic treat.
Tiare Flower
Tiare flowers are iconic in Tahitian culture, often associated with romance and hospitality. Their scent is akin to that of coconut-infused sunscreen, transporting you to an exotic beach paradise.
These star-shaped, white flowers grow best in warm, humid conditions, thriving in well-drained soil. They are not only a visual delight but also a cornerstone in the creation of Monoi oil, a traditional Tahitian beauty product.
Adding these flowers to your garden can infuse the space with a touch of tropical elegance and nostalgia. They’re perfect for anyone wanting a slice of paradise at home.
Jasmine
Jasmine flowers are cherished for their enchanting fragrance that dances in the evening air, reminiscent of the gentle aroma of sunscreen on a breezy summer night.
These petite, star-shaped flowers thrive in warm, sunny environments and prefer well-drained soil. The scent is both soothing and invigorating, often used in perfumes and teas.
With its rich cultural significance, Jasmine symbolizes love and beauty in many parts of the world. Introducing Jasmine into your garden can add a layer of sensuality and relaxation, making it a beloved choice for those seeking both beauty and fragrance.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang’s fragrance is renowned for its calming properties, often compared to the comforting smell of high-end sunscreens. It’s a mainstay in aromatherapy for its ability to invoke tranquility.
These flowers are native to Southeast Asia and thrive in tropical climates. Their distinctive yellow petals hang delicately from the branches, providing a striking visual appeal.
As a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, Ylang Ylang adds an exotic, floral note that’s both alluring and relaxing. This plant can be a serene addition to any garden, offering both beauty and a sense of peace.
Frangipani
Frangipani, with its intoxicating scent, evokes memories of tropical beaches and sunscreens with coconut undertones. This flower is beloved for its vibrant, waxy petals that vary in color from white to pink to yellow.
Native to the Caribbean and Central America, Frangipani thrives in warm, sunny locations. Its flowers are often used in leis, signifying hospitality and friendship.
The plant’s soothing scent and striking appearance make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes, perfect for creating a tranquil, inviting atmosphere. Whether in a pot or planted as a bush, it’s a true showstopper.
Beach Morning Glory
Beach Morning Glory, a resilient coastal plant, exudes a scent reminiscent of seaside sunscreen. Its purple, trumpet-shaped flowers spread like a carpet over sandy dunes.
This plant is a natural choice for coastal gardens, thriving in sandy, well-drained soil and full sun. Its creeping vines help stabilize dunes, protecting shorelines from erosion.
Not only does it enhance the landscape with its vibrant blooms, but it also serves a practical purpose in shoreline conservation. Beach Morning Glory offers both beauty and function, a perfect reflection of summer’s carefree spirit and natural harmony.
Lemon Verbena
The invigorating scent of Lemon Verbena is a sharp reminder of freshly squeezed lemonade. Its bright green leaves release a citrusy fragrance that’s both refreshing and uplifting.
This plant is perfect for herb gardens, growing well in sunny spots with well-drained soil. It’s commonly used in teas, desserts, and even fragrances.
Lemon Verbena is a delightful choice for anyone looking to add a burst of zest to their garden or kitchen. Its aroma is not only pleasing but also known to uplift moods, making it a cherished addition to any home space seeking a citrus flair.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm’s refreshing scent is like a glass of lemonade on a warm day, with its lemon-scented leaves providing a serene backdrop.
Originally from Europe, this herb is easy to grow, thriving in sunny or partially shaded spots. It’s often used in herbal teas and for its calming properties.
Adding Lemon Balm to your garden not only enhances the landscape but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its citrus aroma can brighten any space, whether in the garden or as part of a culinary creation. This plant brings a touch of refreshing elegance wherever it grows.
Lemon Basil
Lemon Basil offers a unique twist on the classic herb, with its leaves exuding a refreshing lemon aroma that invigorates the senses.
This plant thrives in warm, sunny climates and well-drained soil. It’s a popular choice for culinary uses, adding a citrusy zing to dishes.
Incorporating Lemon Basil into your garden can provide a dual benefit of beauty and functionality. Its bright scent and flavor make it a favorite for chefs and gardeners alike, offering a vibrant addition to salads, teas, and more. It’s a sensory delight that captures summer’s zest.
Lemon Eucalyptus
The Lemon Eucalyptus tree’s slender leaves are not just visually appealing but also offer a refreshing lemon scent that’s invigorating and clean.
Thriving in warm climates, this tree is often grown for its essential oils, which are used in natural insect repellents and fragrances.
Its lemony aroma can transform any outdoor space into a refreshing haven, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. The scent is both bright and soothing, a perfect complement to summer’s vibrant energy.
This tree embodies the essence of citrus splendor.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is known for its tall, graceful stalks and the invigorating lemon fragrance they release. Often used in Asian cuisine, its citrus scent is unmistakable.
This plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, favoring sunny locations and well-drained soil. It’s a staple in culinary arts, herbal teas, and essential oils.
Incorporating lemongrass into your garden can provide a sensory escape, with its refreshing aroma wafting through the air. It’s a versatile plant that serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, capturing the essence of summer’s spirited freshness.
Lemon Thyme
Lemon Thyme offers a delightful citrus twist to the classic herb, with its tiny leaves releasing a lemony fragrance that’s both invigorating and calming.
Ideal for sunny gardens, this plant thrives in well-drained soil and is a favorite in culinary applications, enhancing dishes with its unique flavor.
Besides its culinary uses, Lemon Thyme is cherished for its aroma, adding a refreshing note to gardens and patios. It’s a plant that brings a burst of sunshine into any space, perfect for those who love a hint of citrus in their greenery.
Lemon Geranium
Lemon Geranium is a lively addition to any garden, known for its beautiful foliage and lemony scent. The plant’s scalloped leaves emit a fragrance reminiscent of homemade lemonade.
It’s a versatile plant, suitable for pots or garden beds, thriving in sunny, well-drained locations. This aromatic geranium is often used in potpourri and herbal remedies.
Adding Lemon Geranium to your outdoor space can create a refreshing oasis, where its citrusy aroma enhances the ambiance. It’s a plant that not only pleases the eye but also uplifts the spirits with its vibrant scent.
Meyer Lemon Tree
The Meyer Lemon Tree is a charming addition to any garden, offering both visual appeal and a delightful lemon fragrance. Its glossy leaves and bright yellow fruits are a testament to its vibrant nature.
These trees thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil and are perfect for small gardens or containers. The lemons they produce are sweeter than traditional varieties, ideal for culinary creations.
A Meyer Lemon Tree not only supplies fresh fruit but also fills the air with a refreshing citrus scent. It’s a compact choice for those wanting a taste of the Mediterranean paradise at home.
Citronella
Citronella is best known for its mosquito-repelling properties, but its refreshing lemon scent can also remind one of a cool glass of lemonade.
This grass is ideal for warm climates, thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil. It’s commonly used in essential oils for its clean, invigorating aroma.
Adding Citronella to your garden not only helps keep pests away but also creates a refreshing atmosphere. The plant’s bright scent brings a sense of vitality and energy to outdoor spaces, capturing the essence of summer’s invigorating spirit.