For many people, snakes are one of the most feared garden visitors. While they play an important role in controlling pests, their sudden appearance near homes can be unsettling — or even dangerous.

Fortunately, some plants are known to naturally repel snakes with their sharp leaves, strong scents, or irritant compounds. According to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), snakes are sensitive to strong odors and rough textures, which can discourage them from entering certain areas.

Here are 8 plants that snakes tend to avoid, all easy to grow in tropical climates like Vietnam.

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🌱 1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – The Natural Barrier

Also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, this hardy succulent is one of the most popular indoor and garden plants. Its long, upright leaves are tough, sharp-edged, and waxy, creating a physical deterrent for snakes.

While the plant doesn’t emit a strong smell, herpetologists say its spiky, sword-like leaves make it uncomfortable for snakes to crawl through dense clusters. It’s also an excellent air purifier, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene (NASA Clean Air Study, 2016).

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🌿 2. Holly (Ilex aquifolium) – Prickly Protection

Known for its shiny leaves and thorny edges, holly (often called “cây nhựa ruồi” in Vietnam) forms a natural barrier.
Dr. Georgina Ushi Phillips, a veterinarian in Florida, explains that snakes prefer smooth surfaces to move easily — so plants with rough, pointed textures make them retreat.

If you live in an area prone to snakes, planting holly bushes along fences or garden borders can reduce the chance of them slithering close.

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🌼 3. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) – Nature’s Snake Repellent

Chrysanthemums aren’t just ornamental; they contain pyrethrum, a natural chemical compound used in many insect repellents and snake deterrents.
Pyrethrum affects the nervous system of insects and can repel snakes due to its potent scent (EPA Botanical Pesticides Review, 2021).

Planting bright yellow or white chrysanthemums around patios or windows will keep your space both beautiful and snake-free.

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🌸 4. Marigolds (Tagetes erecta) – The Scent Snakes Can’t Stand

Marigolds release a pungent aroma that snakes and many insects find offensive. Their roots also secrete compounds that deter nematodes and burrowing pests — favorite snake hunting grounds.

A border of marigolds around your house or vegetable beds adds color while keeping unwanted reptilian guests away.

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🌾 5. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) – The Ancient Guardian

Known locally as ngải cứu, this herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Its strong, bitter scent irritates snakes’ highly sensitive Jacobson’s organ (the olfactory sensor used for “smelling” through the tongue).

According to Elite Patio Direct CEO Granger McCollough, wormwood’s dense foliage and potent oils make it one of the most reliable snake-repelling plants for home gardens.

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🍃 6. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) – Sweet for You, Nasty for Snakes

Beloved in the kitchen, basil’s fragrant essential oils — particularly linalool and eugenol — are delightful to humans but unpleasant to snakes and rodents.

Plant basil near entrances, kitchen gardens, or patios for a refreshing aroma and added protection. Bonus: It also repels mosquitoes and flies (Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, 2023).

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🧄 7. Garlic (Allium sativum) – The Classic Protector

Garlic’s strong, sulfur-based smell naturally deters snakes, insects, and even rodents. Gardeners often crush garlic cloves or mix them with water to create a homemade snake repellent spray.

However, remember that garlic grows best in cooler months — or plant wild garlic species that thrive in tropical regions.

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🌾 8. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) – The Multi-Purpose Shield

This fragrant herb emits citral and geraniol, essential oils also found in mosquito repellents.
Snakes, like many animals, avoid lemongrass due to its strong citrusy odor and dense growth habit, which limits their hiding spots.

Lemongrass also doubles as a natural air freshener and an ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes — a perfect mix of beauty and practicality.

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🧹 Bonus Tip: Cleanliness Is the Best Defense

While these plants can help deter snakes, experts emphasize that good garden hygiene is far more effective.

“Snakes don’t appear because of plants — they come looking for food or shelter,” says the National Wildlife Federation. “Keeping your surroundings clean, trimming tall grass, and removing piles of debris or wood is the safest way to prevent snake encounters.”

If you notice snakes repeatedly near your home, avoid handling them yourself and contact local wildlife control for safe relocation.

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🌿 In Summary

Natural plants can make your garden a safer and more serene place — but always combine them with proper cleaning, lighting, and pest control practices.

Because the real secret to keeping snakes away isn’t fear — it’s balance between nature and care. 🌺