As landscapers, we understand the frustrations of protecting beloved plants from these nibbling critters, known as rabbits. While they are known for their appetites, there are several plants that can deter them. In this blog, we’ll explore four rabbit-resistant plants that we encourage our clients to use if rabbits are taking over their outdoor space. Your landscaping can thrive without falling victim to the furry invaders!
Dwarf Palmetto
The dwarf palmetto, also known as Sabal minor, is a stunning plant that can add an exotic touch to your backyard landscape. Native to the southeastern United States, these palms have broad, fan-shaped leaves and can tolerate a range of soil types. Fortunately, rabbits tend to avoid dwarf palmettos due to their coarse and fibrous foliage, making them an excellent addition to your rabbit-resistant garden.
Russian Sage
Russian sage is a hardy perennial with silvery-gray foliage and tall, slender flower spikes. Its strong fragrance and rough texture make it less appealing to rabbits, while also attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding both beauty and practicality to your yard.
Catmint
Catmint is a versatile and popular perennial herb that not only adds beauty to your yard but also serves as a reliable rabbit-resistant plant. This member of the mint family produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies while deterring rabbits. Catmint is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it an excellent addition to borders, rock gardens, or containers. With its attractive appearance and rabbit-resistant qualities, catmint can be a valuable asset in creating a garden that flourishes while keeping rabbits at bay.
Ornamental Grasses
Various types of ornamental grass, such as fountain grass or maiden grass, are known for their resistance to rabbit browsing. These grasses have narrow, tough leaves and often produce beautiful plumes or feathery flower heads. They are low-maintenance, versatile, and can add texture and movement to your garden, all while deterring rabbits.
Maintaining your yard greenery while dealing with rabbits can be a challenge, but incorporating rabbit-resistant plants can help protect your cherished space. The Dwarf Palmettos, Russian Sage, Catmint, and Ornamental Grasses listed in this blog are excellent choices that rabbits tend to avoid due to their features. By incorporating these plants into your landscaping, you can create a space that not only looks stunning but also discourages rabbits from nibbling on your plants.