Learn about 10 flowers with a natural vanilla scent. Perfect for adding fragrance to your garden or home.
I am Ashley Scott. I have been gardening for 10 years. I enjoy growing flowers that smell good as much as ones that look good. Vanilla-scented blooms are among my favorites. Their sweet fragrance is calming and inviting.
10 flowers you can grow that smell like vanilla
1. Heliotrope
Heliotrope has clusters of purple or white flowers. The scent is rich and sweet. It grows well in sunny spots with moist, well-drained soil.
Learn more about how to improve soil drainage for better flower growth.
2. Vanilla Orchid (Vanilla planifolia)
This tropical vine produces the vanilla beans used for flavoring. It needs warm temperatures, humidity, and filtered light.
You can read more about its history from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
3. Sweet Alyssum
A low-growing plant with tiny white or purple flowers. The fragrance is light and sweet. Perfect for edging and hanging baskets.
Missouri Botanical Garden offers growing details for sweet alyssum.
4. Viburnum carlesii
Also called Korean spice viburnum. The spring flowers smell like vanilla mixed with spice. It prefers full sun to partial shade.
You can check North Carolina Extension for plant care advice.
5. Nicotiana alata
Known as jasmine tobacco. The flowers open in the evening and release a vanilla-like scent that attracts moths.
If you are planting in containers, see my guide on terrace garden ideas for all seasons.
6. Clematis armandii
This evergreen climber blooms in late winter or early spring. The white flowers have a mild vanilla aroma.
7. Vanilla Grass (Hierochloe odorata)
Grown for its fragrant leaves. When dried, it releases a warm vanilla scent. It is often used in braids or sachets.
8. Dianthus
Some varieties, like Dianthus plumarius, have a spicy vanilla fragrance. They do well in sunny, well-drained spots.
Learn more from the University of Minnesota Extension.
9. Petunia ‘Vanilla’
This variety has pale cream blooms with a sweet vanilla scent. It grows well in containers and garden beds.
10. Phalaenopsis violacea
A rare orchid species with a gentle vanilla aroma. It thrives in warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
For orchid care tips, visit the American Orchid Society.
Growing Tips for Vanilla-Scented Flowers
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Give the right amount of sun or shade for each type.
- Water regularly but avoid soggy soil.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
FAQ – Vanilla-Scented Flowers
Q1: Which vanilla-scented flower is easiest to grow?
Sweet alyssum grows easily in most climates and blooms for months.
Q2: Do all vanilla orchids produce beans?
No. Only Vanilla planifolia and a few others produce edible beans, and they require hand pollination.
Q3: Can vanilla-scented flowers grow indoors?
Yes. Orchids, petunias, and heliotrope can be grown indoors with enough light.
