Some plants smell so sweet, they’ll trick your senses into thinking you’ve walked into a candy shop. Others take you deep into the woods with just one breath. Whether you’re team sugar and spice or crave that calming earthy, forest scent, there’s a plant that brings your favorite fragrance vibe to life—no candle or spray required.
These candy-scented plants don’t just smell like treats—some actually release aromas of vanilla, chocolate, bubblegum, or even root beer. And they’re not just novelties either; many are easy to grow indoors or out, and they look as gorgeous as they smell. On the flip side, forest-scented plants like piney herbs, damp moss mimics, and resin-rich shrubs can instantly ground your garden in a peaceful, woodsy atmosphere—no hiking boots needed.
So if you want to turn your space into a sweet-smelling escape or a serene woodland nook, these 17 picks will get you there. From fun and whimsical to deep and meditative, these plants prove scent is just as powerful as looks—and maybe even more unforgettable.
Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum’s delicate clusters of tiny flowers release a honey-like fragrance that can transform any space into a sweet oasis. Their simple yet effective aroma makes them a favorite among gardeners looking to add both beauty and scent to their plots. Often used as ground cover, these flowers are versatile and flourish in a variety of settings. The enchanting aroma is most potent in the evening, offering a gentle reminder of nature’s ability to soothe and relax. It’s hard not to feel a sense of calm when surrounded by these little wonders.
Chocolate Cosmos
Imagine the rich scent of chocolate wafting through your garden. That’s the magic of Chocolate Cosmos, a plant famous for its intoxicating aroma that resembles everyone’s favorite treat. Its dark maroon petals add an exotic touch to any garden space, making it both a visual and olfactory delight. Not just a pretty face, this plant’s unique fragrance draws pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to your garden. A touch of the exotic, Chocolate Cosmos offers a feast for the senses.
Candy Cane Sorrel
Like a childhood treat, Candy Cane Sorrel captures attention with its red and white striped petals, reminiscent of a traditional candy cane. This plant not only draws the eye but also enchants the nose with a scent that’s sweetly refreshing. Often found in gardens as ornamental plants, their vibrant appearance makes them a festive addition during the holiday season. Their unique aroma can be surprising yet delightful, making them an interesting topic for guests. If you want to bring a little festive cheer to your garden, these are an excellent choice!
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle is not just a treat for the eyes; its sweet, nectar-like scent is irresistible to both humans and pollinators. With vines that twine gracefully, it adds vertical interest and a touch of wild elegance to any garden. The scent, reminiscent of summer days, evokes a sense of nostalgia and simple pleasures. Known for attracting hummingbirds, honeysuckle can bring dynamic movement and life to your outdoor space. Its fragrance is most potent at dusk, making evenings in the garden magical.
Jasmine
Jasmine’s fragrance is famously intoxicating, often associated with romance and warm summer nights. Its delicate white blossoms can fill an entire garden with a scent that’s both sweet and slightly musky. Growing jasmine can add an exotic feel to your garden, drawing in those who appreciate finer scents. This plant is a favorite for creating essential oils and perfumes, proving its timeless appeal. If you want a plant that reminds you of leisurely tropical evenings, jasmine is an ideal choice.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm offers more than just its citrusy scent; it’s known for its calming properties, often used in herbal teas. When brushed, its leaves release a refreshing lemon fragrance that can energize and soothe simultaneously. As a versatile herb, it grows well in gardens and pots, making it accessible for various gardeners. It’s a favorite among herbalists and those looking to create a peaceful atmosphere at home. Its dual-purpose nature—both aromatic and medicinal—makes it a delightful addition.
Peppermint
Few scents are as invigorating as peppermint. Its crisp, cool aroma is perfect for refreshing the senses and clearing the mind. Beyond its scent, peppermint is a versatile herb, often used in cooking, teas, and remedies. It’s a robust plant that thrives in many conditions, making it an easy addition for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether enjoyed as a fresh ingredient or simply for its scent, peppermint adds a touch of vitality to any garden. It’s an evergreen favorite loved by many.
Vanilla Orchid
The Vanilla Orchid, from which vanilla flavoring is derived, tantalizes with its rich and sweet scent. Growing this plant can be a rewarding endeavor, as its fragrance is unmistakably luxurious and comforting. Its orchid blooms are not only visually stunning but also a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Cultivating vanilla orchids requires patience, but the payoff is a unique aroma that infuses the air with warmth. Perfect for those who appreciate slow gardening and the rewards of nurturing a plant.
Douglas Fir
A walk through the forest wouldn’t be complete without the fresh, woody scent of a Douglas Fir. This towering tree is synonymous with evergreen forests, offering a clean, invigorating aroma that many associate with nature’s purity. Its needles release a scent that is both grounding and uplifting, often used in essential oils for relaxation. In addition to its aromatic qualities, the Douglas Fir is a vital part of forest ecosystems, providing habitat and sustenance. Its presence is a reminder of the forest’s enduring beauty and tranquility.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood is renowned for its warm, earthy aroma that speaks of strength and resilience. Often used in furniture and essential oils, its scent is comforting and grounding. Cedar trees are stately and robust, embodying the timelessness of nature. Their aromatic wood has been cherished for centuries, used in construction and aromatic blends alike. In the forest, their presence is unmistakable, offering a sense of peace and permanence. Cedarwood’s scent is a bridge to the natural world, timeless and enduring.
Pine
Pine trees are iconic in the world of forestry, known for their crisp, refreshing scent that evokes feelings of clarity and renewal. Their aroma is a staple in cleaning products and air fresheners, celebrated for its ability to invigorate and purify. In the wild, pine forests are a haven for wildlife, their needles and cones providing shelter and food. The scent of pine is a reminder of nature’s capacity to refresh the spirit and clear the mind. Whether in a candle or in the woods, it’s unmistakably nature’s invitation to breathe deeply.
Eucalyptus
The Eucalyptus tree offers a refreshing, medicinal scent that is both invigorating and soothing. Native to Australia, its leaves are famous for their use in wellness products, providing relief and clarity. Known for its towering height and distinctive silver leaves, the eucalyptus is a staple in both natural and decorative settings. The aroma is crisp, often reminiscent of clean air and open spaces, perfect for those seeking a breath of freshness. Its scent is a staple in spas and healing practices worldwide, embodying tranquility and renewal.
Spruce
Spruce trees are evergreen wonders that infuse the air with a rich, woody aroma reminiscent of winter and festivities. Their classic conical shape and vibrant green needles are a hallmark of holiday seasons, often used in decorations. Beyond their festive use, spruce trees play a crucial role in forest ecosystems, providing shelter and food for wildlife. The scent of spruce is a fragrant reminder of nature’s generosity and the joy of seasonal celebrations. With their timeless appeal, these trees are a staple in many landscapes.
Juniper
Juniper bushes are known for their sharp, piney aroma and their striking blue-tinged berries. This scent is often associated with cleanliness and is a key ingredient in gin. The evergreen quality of junipers makes them a resilient addition to any garden, thriving even in rocky, challenging terrains. Their aromatic berries and needles contribute to their unique scent profile, which is invigorating and refreshing. Junipers’ ability to grow in tough conditions makes them a symbol of perseverance and strength, with a fragrance that reflects their hardy nature.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is cherished for its rich, warm aroma that has been valued for centuries in perfumery and incense. The scent is both soothing and inviting, often used in spiritual practices for its calming properties. Sandalwood trees are slow-growing, with aromatic wood that is harvested for its essential oils. This aroma is synonymous with meditation and relaxation, a timeless fragrance that transcends cultural boundaries. The enduring appeal of sandalwood lies in its ability to connect us to a sense of peace and groundedness, making it a treasured scent in many traditions.
Redwood
Redwoods are the giants of the forest, known for their incredible height and ancient presence. Walking among these trees is like stepping into a natural cathedral, with an earthy, slightly sweet scent that fills the air. Their bark and wood have been used historically for construction and crafts, prized for their durability. The aroma of redwoods is subtle yet profound, a reminder of the passage of time and the grandeur of nature. For those who seek awe-inspiring natural beauty, redwoods are a majestic symbol of the forest’s enduring legacy.
Birch
Birch trees, with their distinctive white bark, bring a subtle, sweet woodsy scent to any forest setting. This aroma is a gentle reminder of the changing seasons, often linked to renewal and new beginnings. Birch wood has been used in various crafts and traditional medicines, valued for its flexibility and gentle fragrance. Walking through a stand of birches is like experiencing a natural symphony of sights and scents, with dappled light and soft whispers of the wind. Their presence in a forest is both calming and invigorating, offering a serene escape from the everyday.