Recently, nurseries and plant retailers have seen a significant increase in demand for one particular group of plants: mosquito-repellent varieties.
Plants such as citronella, lavender and rosemary are sought after not only for their beauty, but also their natural pest-repelling properties, as gardeners become increasingly interested in environment-friendly and low-maintenance solutions.
Faiza Mohamed, a plant seller at Planty Kenya in Nairobi, tells the BDLife that buyers have shifted their interest and are increasingly looking for multi-functional plants.
"Whether it's air purification, aromatherapy or mosquito control, plants that offer more than just decoration are the top choice," says Faiza.
"People are more conscious of their purchases now, they want greenery that is both beautiful and useful. Many of these plants contain natural oils or compounds that produce strong scents that can confuse or repel mosquitoes. People want to feel good about what they bring into their homes and these plants allow them to do just that while keeping mosquitoes at bay," she explains.
"These plants are the main sales drivers in the nursery. We started promoting them not only for their appearance but also for their ability to repel mosquitoes and people have really responded," she adds.
On a busy day, she sells up to 20 pots of snake plants or citronella. Online orders for snake plants range from 10 to 15 per day, with total daily sales ranging from 20 to 50 plants.
So what is it about these plants that makes them an enemy of mosquitoes?
"These plants release natural oils or compounds that act as a mild deterrent to mosquitoes. They are widely available, easy to maintain and versatile enough to be used in a variety of settings, from balconies to garden beds to doorways," says Faiza.
For gardeners looking to reduce their reliance on sprays and chemicals, Ms Faiza shares some plants that offer an attractive alternative.
Snake plant
The snake plant is a hardy succulent with erect, sword-like leaves that can be green, yellow-edged or variegated. Although it does not have a strong scent, the plant emits subtle compounds that are believed to repel mosquitoes. Its main strength lies in its ability to purify the air; it absorbs toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde, creating an environment that is less attractive to pests.
Also known as Sansevieria, it is low maintenance and can thrive in low-light conditions. It only needs watering once a week or when the soil is dry, and can live for over a decade with minimal care.
"They are a top choice for new plant owners looking for low-maintenance greenery that quietly contributes to a pest-free space," says Faiza.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy, evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and small bluish-violet flowers. Known for its culinary uses, it is also valued as a natural mosquito repellent. The plant's strong woody scent comes from oils such as cineol and camphor, which mask the scents that attract mosquitoes.
Rosemary thrives under full sun, well-drained soil and minimal watering, making it ideal for balconies, herb gardens or sunny windowsills. It can also be burned in small packages to give off insect-repelling smoke at outdoor gatherings.
Lavender
Lavender is a popular ornamental herb with grey-green foliage and spikes of purple flowers. It is best known for its soothing scent, which contains linalool, a natural compound that repels mosquitoes and other insects.
Lavender thrives under full sunlight and well-drained soil and requires little watering, especially once established. The flowers can be harvested and dried for sachets or essential oil.
Planted in containers outdoors or near doorways, lavender helps to keep mosquitoes at bay while attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Citronella
Often mistaken for lemongrass because of its citrusy scent, citronella is a type of fragrant geranium. Its lemony scent comes from essential oils such as citronellol and geraniol, both effective mosquito repellents. When its leaves are crushed or brushed, the scent is more pronounced, making it an excellent for doorways, patios and resting areas.
"Citronella does best outdoors where its scent can spread freely. Whatever the location, compost-rich soil and the occasional use of liquid fertiliser can enhance growth and fragrance," says Faiza.
She, however, warns against overwatering, a common mistake people make with these plants.
"Too much water can cause root rot, attract fungus gnats or even invite mosquitoes to breed in damp pots. It's best to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again," she warns.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is tall and grass-like with sharp, aromatic blades. It contains high levels of citronellal, which makes it an effective mosquito repellent.
It is also edible and is often used in teas and various dishes. Lemongrass grows quickly in sunny, humid conditions and prefers rich, well-drained soil. It can be planted in beds or large pots. When grown around outdoor living areas, it provides a natural, fragrant barrier against mosquitoes.
Arranged in patio containers, tucked into flower beds, or lined along sidewalks and windowsills, these mosquito-repellent plants offer a simple, natural way to reclaim your yard from pests while adding colour, fragrance, and function to your home.
Marigold
Marigold is a vibrant, sun-loving flowering plant known for its bright orange, yellow or red flowers. In addition to its cheerful appearance, marigold releases pyrethrin, a natural insecticide used in many commercial mosquito repellents.
The scent of marigolds repels mosquitoes, aphids and whiteflies. Marigolds grow well in full sun and in moist but well-drained soil, making them suitable for borders, vegetable patches and flower beds. Their ability to deter pests makes them a popular companion plant in both ornamental and edible gardens.
The best thing about these plants? They are all non-toxic and safe for homes with pets and children.
Prices vary according to the size and type of plant. Dwarf snake plants go for Sh800, while regular potted plants range from Sh950 to Sh1,980. Larger snake plants can fetch up to Sh3,780. Citronella starts at Sh580.
For convenience, Planty Kenya offers a mosquito repellent package for Sh1,950, which includes rosemary, lavender and a snake plant, with citronella available as an extra.
For those new to gardening, Faiza advises starting small.
"A single snake plant indoors or a pot of citronella on the veranda can make a noticeable difference. Once you gain confidence, you can expand with bunches or custom kits," she says.
