Flower Facts
Top 10 Most Fragrant Flowers to Grow in Melbourne Gardens – 2024 Guide
Jul
When I first moved to Melbourne, one of the things that struck me was the city’s incredible diversity of flora. Melbourne’s temperate climate is perfect for growing a variety of fragrant flowers, which can transform any garden into a paradise of scents and colors. In this article, I’ll share some of the most fragrant flowers you can grow in your Melbourne garden, based on my personal experience and extensive gardening knowledge.
Jasmine (Jasminum)
Jasmine is a personal favorite of mine. Its delicate, star-shaped flowers emit a sweet and intoxicating fragrance that can fill an entire garden. I remember planting my first jasmine vine along the fence of my backyard. By the time it bloomed, the scent was so enchanting that it became my favorite spot to relax after a long day.
Growing Tips
Jasmine thrives in well-drained soil and needs a sunny spot to bloom profusely. Regular watering and occasional pruning will keep the plant healthy and encourage more flowers.
More info about native jasmine from Australian Native Plants Society (Australia): Jasminum suavissimum
Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
Gardenias are another top choice for fragrance. These beautiful, creamy white flowers are known for their strong, sweet scent. I planted a gardenia bush near my front porch, and the aroma welcomes me home every time I return.
Growing Tips
Gardenias prefer slightly acidic soil and partial shade. They require regular watering, especially during dry spells, and benefit from occasional feeding with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender’s soothing fragrance is perfect for creating a calming garden environment. I have a small lavender hedge along my garden path, and brushing against the plants releases a wonderful, relaxing scent.
Growing Tips
Lavender loves full sun and well-drained soil. It’s drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.
Roses (Rosa)
No list of fragrant flowers would be complete without roses. I have several rose bushes in my garden, and their blooms fill the air with a delightful mix of scents, from sweet to spicy. Some of my favorite fragrant varieties include ‘Mr. Lincoln,’ ‘Double Delight,’ and ‘Fragrant Cloud.’
Check out our rose collection in case you can’t wait for your bush to bloom: Fresh Roses Delivery Melbourne
Growing Tips
Roses need at least six hours of sunlight daily and thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering, feeding, and pruning are essential to keep them healthy and blooming.
Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet peas are another must-have for a fragrant garden. Their vibrant, butterfly-like flowers have a delightful, sweet scent that I find irresistible. I usually plant sweet peas in pots and place them around my patio, where I can enjoy their fragrance up close.
Growing Tips
Sweet peas prefer cooler weather and should be planted in early spring or autumn. They need full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Regular watering and deadheading will keep them blooming longer.
Daphne (Daphne odora)
Daphne is a winter-blooming shrub with small, pinkish-white flowers that emit a powerful fragrance. I have a Daphne bush near my kitchen window, and its scent wafts indoors, making even the coldest winter days feel a bit more cheerful.
Growing Tips
Daphne prefers partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It’s sensitive to overwatering, so ensure the soil drains well. Mulching helps retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
Frangipani (Plumeria)
Frangipani flowers are synonymous with tropical paradise. Their exotic, sweet fragrance reminds me of summer holidays and beach getaways. I have a frangipani tree in a large pot on my terrace, and its blooms are a constant source of joy.
Growing Tips
Frangipani thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Pruning after the flowering season encourages new growth and more blooms.
Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens)
Heliotrope is known for its clusters of small, violet flowers that emit a vanilla-like fragrance. I have a few heliotrope plants in my garden borders, and their scent is particularly strong in the evening.
Growing Tips
Heliotrope prefers full sun to partial shade and rich, well-drained soil. It needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, and benefits from deadheading to encourage continuous blooming.
Honeysuckle (Lonicera)
Honeysuckle vines are perfect for adding vertical interest and fragrance to your garden. I planted a honeysuckle vine on a trellis near my patio, and its sweet, honey-like scent is a delight in the evenings.
Growing Tips
Honeysuckle thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Regular watering and pruning help keep the vine healthy and blooming. It’s relatively low-maintenance and can quickly cover a fence or trellis.
Stock (Matthiola incana)
Stock is a charming annual with a spicy-sweet fragrance. I plant stock in my garden beds and containers, and their scent is particularly noticeable in the evening. They come in a variety of colors, adding both beauty and fragrance to the garden.
Growing Tips
Stock prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s relatively easy to grow and benefits from regular watering and feeding with a balanced fertilizer.
Fragrant flowers will transform your garden
Creating a fragrant garden in Melbourne is a rewarding experience that engages the senses and enhances the enjoyment of your outdoor space. From the sweet scent of jasmine to the calming aroma of lavender, these fragrant flowers will transform your garden into a haven of delightful scents. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, incorporating these flowers into your garden will provide endless pleasure and satisfaction.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of flowers that thrive in Melbourne’s climate, including their growing tips and care instructions, consider visiting our detailed guides and resources. St Albans Flower Market offers a wide selection of fragrant flowers and expert advice to help you create any bouquet for any occasions.
Your florist, Lien Tran.