There are certain outdoor plants that keep snakes away in India due to their strong smells, irritants, or unfavorable growing conditions. While no plant offers a 100% guarantee against snakes, the following are commonly believed and used to help deter them naturally:
Outdoor Plants That Keep Snakes Away In India
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Marigold (Tagetes)
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Why it works: Has a strong smell and secretes a substance from its roots that repels pests and possibly snakes.
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Bonus: Easy to grow and brightens up the garden.
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Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
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Why it works: Contains citronella, which is known to repel snakes and insects.
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Bonus: Used in cooking and has a pleasant citrus fragrance.
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Tulsi / Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)
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Why it works: Strong smell believed to deter snakes; considered sacred in many Indian households.
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Bonus: Medicinal and religious benefits.
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Rudraksha Tree (Elaeocarpus ganitrus)
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Why it works: Some traditional beliefs suggest snakes avoid areas near rudraksha trees.
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Note: This is more spiritual/folklore than scientific.
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Onion & Garlic Plants (Allium family)
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Why it works: Strong pungent smell is believed to repel snakes.
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Bonus: Useful in cooking.
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Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina)
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Why it works: Known in traditional medicine for snakebite treatments, also believed to repel snakes.
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Note: Should be handled carefully as it has medicinal properties that can affect blood pressure.
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Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
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Why it works: Bitter smell and taste—known to repel many pests including snakes.
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Note: Less common in Indian gardens but effective.
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Mother-in-law’s tongue / Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
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Why it works: Believed to mimic the appearance of snakes, deterring them from entering the area.
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 Additional Tips
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Keep the garden clean and free of debris, as snakes like to hide in cool, dark places.
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Trim overgrown plants and grass regularly.
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Avoid having rodent-attracting food or compost openly, since rodents attract snakes.