In August, many border perennials are starting to fade, but an all-star cast of fragrant plants is ready to take over in autumn.

Advertisement

Browse the scented plants on our plant finder to discover shrubs, annuals, perennials and more, to pack into outdoor spaces.

Discover five of the best scented plants for September, below.

Monarda

Bergamot, Monarda didyma, is so called because of its similarity in fragrance to that of the bergamot orange. A particularly robust plant, it enjoys growing in full sun or dappled shade.

More like this
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet'
Fiery flowers of bergamot Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet'

Buddleja

The scent of buddleja is such that it's not unusual to find it covered in butterflies, when in flower. Take a look at our pick of the best shrubs to grow for butterflies.

Buddleja 'Buzz Sky Blue'
Pale-purple plumes of buddleja flowers

Phlox paniculata

These cottage garden favourites are revered for their sweet, honey-like fragrance. Phlox is enjoyed by butterflies and bees, too. Don't forget to cut some flowerheads and pop in a vase, so you can enjoy the scent indoors.

_Phlox paniculata_
Pink phlox flowers

Salvia guaranitica

The foliage of Salvia guaranitica has a pleasant anise aroma to it, hence the common name anise-scented sage. Give it a warm, sunny spot and grow in well-drained soil.

Salvia guaranitica
Deep blue flowers of Salvia guaranitica

Heptacodium miconioides

Related to honeysuckle, it's no surprise that Heptacodium miconioides packs a scent-filled punch. Pretty white flowers in September are followed by rosy-pink calyces (pictured). Extremely hardy and a great tree for shade.

Advertisement
Heptacodium miconioides
Pretty pink calyces of Heptacodium miconioides

Plants for indoor scent

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement