When inviting the undeniable beauty of Mother Nature inside the home, flowers have a certain magic about them. There’s no question of their aesthetic appeal: who wouldn’t smile at the sight of a fresh bloom, a robust flowering plant, or a pretty pop of color? They’re all reasons enough to incorporate a few throughout the home. An advantage that’s often overlooked is their incredible fragrance.
Not all plants offer a scent, but many are wonderfully aromatic — not overwhelmingly so, but just right for adding some warmth and freshness to your living space. There are many options to consider if you’d like to add a few fragrant notes to your bedroom, living room, or home office. Here are a few to consider, along with some ideas about how to incorporate them successfully.
Eucalyptus
Not only does eucalyptus emit a fresh, minty smell that’s impossible to miss, but it also adds some distinctive style to the home. They look especially great when perched in the path of the sun, their minuscule leaves catching the light as they thrive. Eucalyptus has grown to become something of a social media darling in recent years, too, thanks to its ability to transform an otherwise ordinary bathroom into a virtual spa.
Hanging it from the shower is a fantastic way to reap its rewards. The steam naturally releases eucalyptus oil, allowing it to waft through the space and envelop you in a cloud of its heady aroma. Because it’s such a relaxing scent, you can truly unwind while the hot water cascades over you — and make any shower a more indulgent self-care experience. The Baby Blue Eucalyptus makes a lovely choice for this purpose.
Lily of the Valley
If you’re searching for something as showy as it is fragrant, try Lily of the Valley. The beautiful plant is prized for its distinctive, bell-shaped blossoms. The flowers are dainty and quietly elegant, with a certain innocence about them reminiscent of a spring garden. The scent, too, echoes that innate sweetness. It’s surprisingly complex for such a charming plant, what with its intriguing medley of watery notes, spice tones, jasmine undertones, and green inflections. The result is wildly varied, yet settles somewhere in a happy, springy place that’s ultimately crisp and refreshing.
While the plant isn’t typically nurtured inside, there’s no reason that you can’t! Just keep in mind that they’ll only bloom for a season. After that, you can transfer them from a pot to the garden and keep them going for several years. Lily of the Valley loves a cooler climate but won’t say no to average room temperatures either. Lower temperatures simply support more robust blooming. Avoid placing them near drafts, however. Since they don’t necessarily require bright lighting, you can set your plant somewhere subtly bright. A windowsill that receives minimal sun exposure is a fantastic choice, as is a dining table near a window.
Angel’s Trumpet
You won’t find many flowers as eye-catching as the angel’s trumpet. Fittingly, they’re heaven-sent for flower enthusiasts who love the appearance of a strong, standout bloom. They perform well indoors at any time of the year, but you can always bring your outdoor plant inside for a little wintertime cheer if you prefer. This tropical, exotic plant is known for its unique trumpet silhouette. Hanging like pendants, they add graceful beauty to almost any part of the home.
Fragrances can vary, but there’s no question of their strength. Some varieties have a distinct citrus note, while others lean more in the direction of jasmine or gardenia. You’ll even find some forms with subtle musky undertones. The fragrance tends to come out most in the summertime. Because of their natural tropical climate, it’s important to nurture your angel’s trump in a similar environment. Keep them in a sunny location or you risk leaf loss, and ensure regular fertilizer application and temperatures of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. If you have a hallway with a window, this plant makes a lovely addition for its showstopping appearance. It’s also a striking choice for an entry table.
There are countless fragrant houseplants available, but some are destined to leave a lasting impression — both on you and your living space. Take your time navigating your options, ultimately settling on a variety that you can carefully nurture in the comfort of your home.
