6 Shrubs That Deer Won’t Eat
When you've put time and energy into landscaping, the last thing you want is to see it treated like a buffet by hungry deer. The truth is, there’s no such thing as a completely deer-proof plant, but some shrubs are far less appealing to them than others thanks to their strong scents, tough textures, or bitter flavors. Choosing the right ones can save your garden and keep things looking full, healthy, and green year after year.
Boxwood
Boxwood is a go-to for structured landscaping, and it just so happens to smell terrible to deer. Its dense growth and strong, almost cat-like odor make it one of the least appetizing options in any yard. It's also evergreen, which helps keep gardens looking alive through winter. Deer may nibble when food is scarce, but they’ll move on quickly once they get a taste or whiff of this one.
Oregon Grape Holly
Deer don't like a challenge, and Oregon grape holly gives them one. Its leathery, spiny leaves are unappealing, and its bitter taste adds another reason for them to skip it. This shrub brings year-round interest for your garden, too, with yellow flowers in spring and blue berries in late summer. It’s an easy win if you want something ornamental that doesn’t double as a snack.
Butterfly Bush
The butterfly bush does indeed attract butterflies (and other pollinators), but not deer. The leaves have a fuzzy coating that deer tend to avoid, and the fragrance, while pleasant to us, doesn't sit well with them. It thrives in sun, is drought-tolerant, and blooms for months. With some butterfly bush, you'll keep all the beneficial animals in your yard while discouraging the destructive ones.
Barberry
Barberry checks two boxes. First, its thorny branches make it uncomfortable to chew or walk through. Second, the sharp flavor and dense, woody structure make it a last resort meal for deer. It's a practical choice if you’re looking for a living barrier or want to fill gaps between more vulnerable plants. Many varieties also offer seasonal color that adds some depth to your garden.
Lavender and Rosemary
Technically herbs, lavender and rosemary grow large enough in the right climate to act as shrubs. Thankfully, their strong, distinctive aromas are natural deterrents. Deer have sensitive noses, and the oils in these plants are just too much for them. They're also low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making them ideal for warm, dry climates. If you're short on space, these shrubs can even double as edible landscape!
Variety
One shrub alone won't make a garden deer-resistant, but a well-planned mix can. Use a combination of unpalatable scents, tough textures, and thorny varieties to build layers of protection around your more vulnerable plants. You can also plant less deer-resistant species close to your home, where deer are less likely to wander. The more strategic your layout, the less damage you’ll see, and the stronger your garden will grow year-after-year.
Deer will eat nearly anything if they're desperate, but some shrubs are simply not worth the effort to them. Choosing the right ones can help protect your garden without constant intervention. While no plant is entirely safe, building your landscape around less appetizing options gives you a solid head start. With a little planning, your shrubs can stay healthy and beautiful, even in deer territory.