Plants & Trees that Repel Moths

Hyssop

• Hyssop (Hyssopus) is a genus of herbaceous plants that belong to the Lamiaceae or mint family. The genus, native to central Asia and the east Mediterranean region, comprises between 10 and 12 aromatic species. Hyssop deters moths, writes Linda Rector Page in her book “Healthy Healing,” and is useful when planted with grapes and cabbage.

Mint

• Mint (Mentha), the aromatic herbaceous member of the Lamiaceae family, has numerous culinary, cosmetic and medicinal uses. The herb also makes a useful and environmentally friendly insecticide and effectively eliminates a host of common pests, including moths. Placing dried mint leaves in wardrobes repels moths, writes Meredith Kirton in her book “Dig: Modern Seasonal Gardening.” Furthermore, growing mint near windows and doors discourages moths from entering the home.

Rue

• Rue (Ruta) is a genus of small, evergreen shrubs native to the Mediterranean region. Its extracts have medicinal uses and make a viable insect repellent and disinfectant. Dried rue placed in linen cupboards repels moths, writes Ken Fern in his book “Plants for a Future.”

Rosemary

• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is another fragrant herbaceous member of the Lamiaceae family. It is extensively used in landscaping, owing to its drought tolerance and pest resistance. Dried rosemary leaves and sprigs repel moths when placed in linen and clothes closets, writes Judy Camozzi in her book “What Makes Heirloom Plants So Great?” Dried rosemary twigs placed in books protects them from moth damage.

Eastern Redcedar

• Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana Linnaeus) is a short, dark green conifer with sharp needle-like leaves. This native North American tree is tolerant of salt, pollution and drought. Its wood repels moths, owing to its strong odor, and is used to line linen drawers and closets. The authors of the book “North American Trees” write that redcedar wood releases aromatic compounds that kill moth larvae.