10 Outdoor Plants That Repel Lizards: A Natural Solution

Are you tired of seeing lizards in your garden or on your patio? Do you want to find a natural solution to keep them away without harming them? Look no further than outdoor plants that repel lizards! In this post, we'll explore some of the best plants for keeping lizards at bay.

The Science Behind Lizard Repellent Plants

To understand why certain plants repel lizards, it's helpful to know a bit about lizard behavior. Lizards are cold-blooded and rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. They also have a highly developed sense of smell. Some plants produce chemicals that interfere with these two aspects of lizard behavior, making them less attractive to lizards as a source of warmth or food.

10 Outdoor Plants That Repel Lizards

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful flowers but can also help keep lizards away from your garden. They contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that is toxic to many insects and reptiles.

2. Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming scent, but it can also be used as a natural lizard repellent. Its strong fragrance is thought to be unpleasant to lizards, so planting lavender around your garden or patio can help keep them away.

3. Lemongrass

Lemongrass contains citral, a compound that has been shown to repel lizards. You can plant lemongrass in your garden or patio, or use its essential oil as a spray to keep lizards away.

4. Basil

Basil is not just a tasty herb for cooking, but it also has insecticidal properties that make it an effective lizard repellent. Planting basil around your garden or patio can help keep lizards and other pests away.

5. Mint

Mint plants have a strong scent that lizards find unpleasant, making them a good choice for keeping these reptiles at bay. You can plant mint around your garden or patio or use its essential oil as a spray.

6. Rosemary

Rosemary contains camphor, a compound that is toxic to many insects and reptiles, including lizards. Planting rosemary around your garden or patio can help keep lizards at bay.

7. Geraniums

Geraniums contain citronella, a natural mosquito repellent that also works well against lizards. Planting geraniums around your garden or patio can help keep both pests away.

8. Garlic

Garlic is known for its pungent smell, which is thought to repel lizards. You can plant garlic bulbs around your garden or patio or use garlic essential oil as a spray.

9. Catnip

Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that is toxic to many insects and reptiles, including lizards. Planting catnip around your garden or patio can help keep lizards away.

10. Alliums

Alliums, such as onions, chives, and garlic, contain sulfur compounds that are believed to repel lizards. Planting alliums around your garden or patio can help keep these reptiles at bay.

Other Ways to Repel Lizards

In addition to planting lizard-repelling plants, there are other steps you can take to keep these reptiles away from your home and garden. Some of these include:

• Keeping your yard clean and free of debris, which can provide hiding places for lizards.
• Sealing any cracks or gaps in your home's foundation or walls, which can provide entry points for lizards.
• Using a lizard repellent spray, which typically contains natural or synthetic compounds that repel lizards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are lizard repellent plants safe for pets?

A: Most lizard repellent plants are safe for pets, but it's always a good idea to research the specific plant before adding it to your garden or patio. Some plants can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities.

Q2: Do lizard repellent plants work on all types of lizards?

A: Lizard repellent plants may be more effective against some species of lizards than others. However, they are generally effective at keeping most common types of lizards away from your home and garden.

Q3: How often do I need to replant lizard repellent plants?

A: The frequency with which you need to replant lizard repellent plants will depend on the specific plant and growing conditions. In general, you should aim to replace annual plants each year and perennial plants every three to five years.

Q4: Can I use lizard repellent plants indoors?

A: Yes, many lizard repellent plants can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. However, you may need to provide additional light and humidity for indoor plants.

Q5: Is it safe to use lizard repellent sprays around children?

A: Most lizard repellent sprays are safe for use around children, but it's always a good idea to read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.


If you're looking for a natural way to keep lizards away from your home and garden, consider planting some of these lizard-repelling plants. Not only do they offer an effective solution, but they also add beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. Remember to research each plant before adding it to your garden or patio and take steps to keep your yard clean and free of debris to maximize their effectiveness.