There’s something instantly uplifting about the scent of citrus—that crisp, tangy brightness that feels like sunshine in the air. While citrus fruits like lemons and oranges steal the spotlight, there are many non-fruiting plants that deliver the same refreshing aroma without ever producing a single piece of fruit. Even better? Some of these fragrant powerhouses release their citrus-like scent year-round, whether or not they’re in bloom.
These plants aren’t just pleasant to sniff—they’re also surprisingly easy to grow. Many are low-maintenance herbs, shrubs, or ornamentals that thrive in containers, gardens, or on sunny windowsills. Whether you’re craving the zesty fragrance of lemon, the subtle sweetness of orange blossoms, or a clean grapefruit tang, these picks will keep your home or garden smelling fresh and invigorating.
In this list, you’ll find 16 plants that smell like fresh citrus, even when they’re not flowering. From aromatic leaves to resinous stems and bark, they offer natural fragrance without needing a diffuser or synthetic spray. Bonus: several of them also repel pests, making them as practical as they are delightful. Ready to add a citrus twist to your plant collection? These are the ones to grow.
Lemon Verbena
Lemon Verbena, with its bright green leaves, is a favorite for those seeking a fresh citrus aroma. Surprisingly, the leaves hold more fragrance than the flowers. A gentle crush releases a burst of lemony scent, perfect for teas and infusions. This plant thrives in sunny spots, making it an excellent choice for garden borders or pots. Its adaptability and pleasant fragrance have made it a staple in aromatic gardens. Known for its calming properties, it’s also popular in aromatherapy.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm, part of the mint family, offers a refreshing lemon fragrance that is both soothing and uplifting. Often used in herbal teas, it adds a zesty note that invigorates the senses. Its oval, textured leaves are as pleasing to the eye as the scent is to the nose. This hardy perennial is easy to grow, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. Aside from its aromatic charm, Lemon Balm is known for its calming effects, often used in stress-relief remedies.
Citronella Geranium
Citronella Geranium, often mistaken for its mosquito-repelling cousin, offers a strong citrus scent from its leaves. This plant, with its deeply lobed foliage, is ideal for pots and can be moved indoors during colder months. The scent is released when the leaves are brushed or crushed, providing a natural aroma for outdoor gatherings. While it does flower, the leaves are the main attraction. Besides its fragrance, it’s known for repelling insects, making it a practical addition to any patio or garden.
Lemon Thyme
Lemon Thyme combines the robust flavor of thyme with a hint of lemon, making it a culinary delight. Its small, green leaves pack a powerful punch of citrus aroma, perfect for enhancing dishes like chicken or fish. Gardeners love its hardiness and versatility in both garden beds and containers. Beyond the kitchen, Lemon Thyme is valued for its aromatic properties, adding a fresh scent to any space. This plant is easy to care for, thriving in well-drained soil and full sunlight.
Curry Leaf Plant
Curry Leaf Plant, not just for culinary use, exudes a gentle citrus aroma from its lush green leaves. Popular in Indian cuisine, its fragrance is released when the leaves are cooked or crushed. This tropical plant prefers warm climates and grows well indoors with adequate sunlight. Its glossy leaves add a touch of greenery to indoor spaces while providing a subtle citrus scent. Known for its antioxidant properties, the Curry Leaf Plant is both functional and fragrant, enhancing culinary creations and home aromas alike.
Mexican Orange Blossom
Mexican Orange Blossom, or Choisya ternata, captivates with its aromatic evergreen leaves that smell like sweet oranges. Even when not in bloom, the foliage emits a citrus aroma that’s both refreshing and calming. As an ornamental shrub, it adds structure and fragrance to gardens. It thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for various garden spots. Its resilience and scent make it a popular choice for hedges and borders.
Lemon Eucalyptus
Lemon Eucalyptus, towering with slender leaves, offers a potent lemon fragrance that’s hard to miss. This tree, native to Australia, is often used in essential oils and insect repellents due to its strong citrus scent. Its tall stature and elegant leaves make it a striking addition to parks and large gardens. The aroma is most intense when leaves are crushed, releasing a refreshing lemony burst. Known for its medicinal properties, it’s popular in natural health products.
Sweet Lime
Sweet Lime, beyond its juicy fruit, surprises with fragrant leaves that exude a mild citrus aroma. Common in tropical gardens, this tree is appreciated not only for its fruit but also for its aromatic foliage. The scent of the leaves provides a constant reminder of citrus fields, even in urban settings. It requires a warm climate and plenty of sunlight to thrive, making it a staple in sun-drenched areas. The tree’s appeal is its dual purpose: ornamental and productive.
Bergamot Mint
Bergamot Mint, distinct for its citrusy scent, boasts a unique combination of lemon and mint aromas. This herb, often used in teas and potpourris, keeps gardens fragrant even without blossoms. Its leaves, green and textured, are both visually appealing and aromatic. Thriving in sunny, well-drained areas, it’s a favorite among herbalists and gardeners alike. The plant’s dual fragrance profile makes it a versatile addition to culinary and aromatic gardens.
Orange Bergamot
Orange Bergamot, known for its role in Earl Grey tea, offers a delightful citrus scent that permeates the air. Its leaves, aromatic even without flowers, make it a prized addition to gardens aimed at sensory enrichment. Preferring sunny locations, this plant adds a touch of elegance with its glossy foliage. The subtle orange aroma provides a refreshing scent experience, enhancing outdoor and indoor spaces alike. Its rich history in perfumery adds to its allure.
Calamondin Orange
Calamondin Orange, a hybrid citrus plant, charms with small, tart fruits and aromatic leaves. This compact tree is perfect for pots, lending a citrus scent to balconies and patios. Its leaves are fragrant, offering a burst of orange aroma when touched or crushed. The plant is not just decorative but also bears edible fruits, making it a multipurpose addition to small gardens. Requiring ample sunlight, it thrives in bright conditions, bringing a tropical feel to urban living spaces.
Citrus-Scented Geranium
The Citrus-Scented Geranium, with its delightful leaf aroma, is a favorite for indoor spaces. Its leaves, often more aromatic than its flowers, release a refreshing citrus scent when rubbed. This geranium is versatile, fitting into both garden beds and indoor pots. The charming scent adds a touch of freshness to any room, creating an inviting atmosphere. It’s easy to maintain and thrives with regular watering and sunlight, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Mandarin Orange
Mandarin Orange trees, known for their sweet fruit, also feature aromatic leaves that evoke a citrus orchard. These trees, compact and lush, are perfect for small to medium gardens. The leaves emit a sweet citrus scent, even in the absence of fruit. Growing best in warm climates, they require full sun and well-drained soil. Their dual purpose as both ornamental and fruit-bearing plants makes them a popular choice for gardeners looking to maximize space and fragrance.
Lemon Basil
Lemon Basil, a culinary favorite, delights with its intense lemon fragrance. The plant’s leaves, small yet potent, are a staple in many dishes, infusing them with a fresh citrusy flavor. Ideal for herb gardens, it thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil. Beyond the kitchen, its aromatic leaves can freshen up any space. Known for its versatility, Lemon Basil is as much a treat for the senses as it is a practical addition to culinary and aromatic collections.
Orange Jasmine
Orange Jasmine, with its glossy leaves, surprises many with a citrus fragrance that rivals its blossoms. This shrub is a favorite in ornamental gardens, where its scent creates an enticing ambiance. The plant thrives in warm climates and prefers well-drained soil, making it an easy-care option for fragrant hedges or standalone features. Known for its small, fragrant blooms, the foliage plays an equally important role in scenting the garden. Its enduring fragrance is both soothing and invigorating.
Lemon-Scented Tea Tree
Lemon-Scented Tea Tree, native to Australia, is renowned for its fresh lemon aroma that emanates from its slender leaves. This plant thrives in coastal gardens, adding a refreshing scent to breezy landscapes. The leaves, when crushed, release a potent citrus fragrance, ideal for scenting natural spaces. It’s not only aromatic but also a favorite in the production of essential oils, known for its antibacterial properties. The plant’s resilience and fragrant nature make it a gardener’s delight.