Plants That Repel Scorpions: Keep Your Home Safe

Are you tired of seeing scorpions in your home? Scorpions are not only creepy, but they can also be dangerous. Fortunately, there are natural ways to keep them away from your home. One of the most effective methods is by planting certain types of plants that repel scorpions. In this article, we'll explore various plants that can help you keep scorpions at bay.

What Attracts Scorpions?

Before discussing plants that repel scorpions, it's important to understand what attracts them in the first place. Scorpions are attracted to dark and moist environments. They also like to hide in small crevices and cracks. Additionally, scorpions are attracted to insects, so if you have a lot of bugs in your home, you may be inviting scorpions inside.

Plants That Repel Scorpions

Here are some of the best plants that can help you keep scorpions away from your home:

Lavender

Lavender is known for its sweet scent, which is loved by humans but hated by scorpions. The plant's essential oils act as a natural deterrent, keeping scorpions away. You can plant lavender around the perimeter of your home or in pots near your doors and windows to keep scorpions from entering.

Citronella

Citronella is another fragrant plant that repels scorpions. It contains citronellol, which has insect-repelling properties. Plant citronella around your home to keep scorpions away, or use citronella candles or essential oils indoors.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is another plant that contains citronellol. It has a fresh, lemony scent that can help repel scorpions. You can plant lemongrass in your garden or grow it in pots near your doors and windows.

Mint

Mint is an easy-to-grow herb that repels scorpions. The strong scent of mint can mask the smell of other insects, making your home less attractive to scorpions. Plant mint around your home or use mint essential oil indoors.

Garlic

Garlic is another powerful plant that can repel scorpions. The strong odor of garlic is hated by scorpions, so planting garlic around your home can be an effective way to keep them away.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides. They can repel scorpions as well as other pests like ants, roaches, and ticks. Plant chrysanthemums around your home or use chrysanthemum essential oil indoors.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood has a distinct aroma that scorpions dislike. You can use cedarwood chips or shavings around your home to repel scorpions. You can also use cedarwood essential oil in diffusers or sprays indoors.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are beautiful flowers that can also help repel scorpions. They contain mustard oil, which has insecticidal properties. Plant nasturtiums around your home or use nasturtium essential oil indoors.

Basil

Basil is another easy-to-grow herb that can repel scorpions. Its strong scent can mask the smell of other insects, making your home less attractive to scorpions. Plant basil around your home or use basil essential oil indoors.

Catnip

Catnip is loved by cats but hated by scorpions. It contains nepetalactone, which has insect-repelling properties. Plant catnip around your home or use catnip essential oil indoors.

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is a member of the mint family and has a strong odor that can repel scorpions. However, it's important to note that pennyroyal is toxic to pets and should not be used if you have animals in your home.

Marigolds

Marigolds are beautiful flowers that can also help keep scorpions away. They contain pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides. Plant marigolds around your home or use marigold essential oil indoors.

Rosemary

Rosemary is another fragrant herb that can repel scorpions. Its strong scent can mask the smell of other insects, making your home less attractive to scorpions. Plant rosemary around your home or use rosemary essential oil indoors.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has a lemony scent that can help repel scorpions. Plant lemon balm around your home or use lemon balm essential oil indoors.

How to Use Plants That Repel Scorpions

Now that you know which plants repel scorpions, it's important to know how to use them effectively. Here are some tips:

Plant Them Strategically

Plant your chosen plants around the perimeter of your home or in pots near your doors and windows. This will create a natural barrier that scorpions won't want to cross.

Use Essential Oils Indoors

If you don't have space for plants indoors, you can use essential oils instead. Simply add a few drops of your chosen oil to a diffuser or spray bottle and use it to freshen up your home.

Combine Plants for Maximum Effect

You don't have to stick to just one type of plant. Try combining different plants to create a stronger barrier against scorpions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Plants That Repel Scorpions

1. Are these plants safe to use around children and pets?

Most of the plants on this list are safe to use around children and pets. However, some plants like pennyroyal can be toxic to animals. Make sure to do your research before using any plant around your home.

2. How often do I need to replant these plants?

Most of these plants are perennials, which means they will come back year after year. However, you may need to replace them if they become damaged or die.

3. Do these plants work for all types of scorpions?

While these plants have been shown to repel many types of scorpions, there is no guarantee that they will work for every species.

4. Can I use these plants in conjunction with other pest control methods?

Absolutely! These plants can be used alongside other pest control methods like sealing cracks and crevices, reducing moisture, and using insecticides.

5. Do these plants require a lot of maintenance?

Most of these plants are low-maintenance and easy to grow. However, you may need to water them regularly and prune them as needed.


If you're tired of seeing scorpions in your home, planting certain types of plants can be an effective way to keep them away. Lavender, citronella, lemongrass, mint, garlic, chrysanthemums, cedarwood, nasturtiums, basil, catnip, pennyroyal, marigolds, rosemary, and lemon balm are all great options that can help repel scorpions. Remember to plant them strategically, use essential oils indoors, and combine different plants for maximum effect. With these tips, you can keep your home safe and scorpion-free.