Plants that repel mosquitoes in the Philippines are essential during the rainy season when dengue cases spike. While no plant eliminates mosquitoes entirely, certain species release natural oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Placing these plants near windows, doorways and outdoor sitting areas creates a fragrant, natural barrier that reduces mosquito activity.
The best approach combines multiple repellent plants around your home with good mosquito prevention practices. Remove standing water, use screens on windows and grow the plants listed below for a multi-layered defence against mosquitoes.
1. Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is the most well-known mosquito-repelling plant in the Philippines. The tall, clumping grass contains citronellal and geraniol oils that mosquitoes actively avoid. Plant in full sun near outdoor seating areas, pathways and entry points to your home. Citronella grows 1 to 1.5 metres tall and forms thick clumps. Crush fresh leaves to release stronger scent. Burn dried leaves as a mosquito-repelling smudge during evening gatherings.
- How it repels: Releases citronellal oil that masks human scent
- Growing difficulty: Very easy, low maintenance
- Where to plant: Full sun, near seating areas and doorways
- Tip: Rub crushed leaves on skin for temporary personal repellent
2. Tanglad (Lemongrass)
Tanglad contains citral oil that repels mosquitoes while being useful in the kitchen. Plant stalks directly in soil near windows and outdoor eating areas. Tanglad grows into thick clumps that create a fragrant barrier. Harvest stalks for tea, soups and curries. Burn dried leaves as a natural mosquito coil replacement. Tanglad is one of the easiest plants to grow in the Philippines and requires almost no care.
- How it repels: Citral oil masks human scent from mosquitoes
- Growing difficulty: Very easy, practically zero care needed
- Where to plant: Full sun, near entry points and cooking areas
- Bonus: Edible, makes tea, flavours soups and curries
3. Lavender
Lavender releases linalool and linalyl acetate compounds that mosquitoes dislike. Growing lavender in the Philippine lowlands is challenging because of the heat and humidity, but it grows well in containers placed in breezy, sunny spots with excellent drainage. Use a gritty soil mix with 50% perlite or pumice. Avoid overwatering. Lavender thrives in the cooler months (November to February) and may struggle during the hot wet season.
- How it repels: Linalool oil is a natural insect deterrent
- Growing difficulty: Moderate (needs good drainage and airflow)
- Where to plant: Containers in sunny, breezy spots
- Tip: Dry flowers and place in sachets near windows
4. Marigold
Marigold contains pyrethrin, a natural insecticide found in many commercial mosquito sprays. The bright yellow and orange flowers also repel aphids, whiteflies and other garden pests. Plant marigolds around vegetable beds and seating areas for double duty as pest control and decoration. Easy to grow from seed with blooms in 45 to 50 days. Marigolds grow well year-round in the Philippine climate.
- How it repels: Pyrethrin compound deters mosquitoes and other insects
- Growing difficulty: Very easy from seed
- Where to plant: Full sun, around garden borders and seating
- Bonus: Repels garden pests and adds colour
5. Albahaka (Basil)
Albahaka (Filipino basil) emits a strong aroma that mosquitoes avoid. Place potted basil on windowsills, near doorways and on dining tables during outdoor meals. The essential oils eugenol and citronellol provide natural insect deterrence. Pinch growing tips regularly to keep plants bushy and release more fragrance. Albahaka is also used in Filipino cooking, making it a practical addition to any kitchen garden.
- How it repels: Eugenol and citronellol oils deter mosquitoes
- Growing difficulty: Easy in pots or garden beds
- Where to plant: Windowsills, tables, near doorways
- Bonus: Edible herb for cooking
More Mosquito-Repelling Plants
- Mint releases menthol that mosquitoes dislike. Grow in containers (mint spreads aggressively in garden beds). Place pots near windows and seating areas. Crush leaves for a stronger scent. Also makes refreshing tea and garnishes.
- Rosemary produces camphor and cineole oils that repel mosquitoes. Grow in well-drained containers in full sun. Burn dried rosemary sprigs as a natural mosquito coil. Use fresh sprigs in cooking.
- Scented Geranium varieties like citronella geranium release a lemon-like scent that deters mosquitoes. Grow in pots on balconies and patios. Pinch leaves to release the fragrance. These are different from common geraniums.
- Chrysanthemum contains natural pyrethrin, the same compound used in many commercial insecticides. Plant in pots around outdoor living spaces. The colourful flowers provide pest control and decoration at the same time.
- Calamansi leaves and fruit rind contain limonene that mosquitoes dislike. Rub calamansi peel on exposed skin as a mild repellent. A calamansi tree near your patio serves double duty as fruit producer and mosquito deterrent.
Where to Place Mosquito-Repelling Plants
- Near entry points. Place pots beside front doors, back doors and garage entries. Mosquitoes enter homes through open doors, so a fragrant barrier at these points reduces indoor mosquitoes.
- On windowsills. Put small pots of basil, mint or lavender on kitchen and bedroom windowsills. The scent deters mosquitoes from entering through open windows.
- Around outdoor seating. Surround patios, decks and garden benches with citronella, tanglad and marigold. Create a ring of fragrance around where people gather in the evening.
- Along garden paths. Plant citronella and tanglad along walkways. Walking past them brushes the leaves and releases mosquito-repelling oils.
- Near standing water you cannot remove. If you have a fish pond, birdbath or water feature, surround it with repellent plants to reduce mosquito breeding near these water sources.
Create a Mosquito-Free Zone
Quality soil for your mosquito-repelling plants. Same-day delivery across Metro Manila.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plants repel mosquitoes in the Philippines?
The best plants that repel mosquitoes in the Philippines are citronella grass, tanglad (lemongrass), lavender, marigold, albahaka (basil), mint and rosemary. These plants release natural oils and scents that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Place them near windows, doorways and outdoor sitting areas. Crush or rub the leaves to release stronger scents. While no plant eliminates mosquitoes completely, combining several varieties creates an effective natural deterrent.
Does citronella actually repel mosquitoes?
Yes, citronella grass does repel mosquitoes. The plant contains citronellal and geraniol oils that mosquitoes avoid. However, the living plant alone provides mild protection. For stronger effect, crush the leaves and rub the oil on exposed skin or burn dried leaves as a smudge. Citronella is most effective when combined with other repellent plants like tanglad and albahaka placed around sitting areas.
How do I use tanglad to repel mosquitoes?
Use tanglad (lemongrass) to repel mosquitoes by planting clumps near entry points to your home and around outdoor seating areas. Crush fresh leaves and rub the juice on your skin as a natural repellent. Burn dried tanglad leaves in a metal container as a mosquito-repelling smudge during evening gatherings outdoors. Brew tanglad tea and use the cooled liquid as a spray for mild mosquito deterrence around doorways and windows.
