Sometimes the quickest lift in mood comes from the air around you. Citrus scents are known to sharpen the senses, calm the nerves, and invite a feeling of lightness.
Flowers that carry this zesty aroma can do more than brighten your garden—they can subtly change the way a space feels.
This list features 13 flowers that carry a fresh citrus-like fragrance, each offering a different way to infuse joy and energy into your surroundings.
Some bloom boldly outdoors, while others adapt well to indoor pots. They’re not hard to grow and will reward you with color, scent, and character for seasons to come.
#1 Bikovo
Source: Gardentabs
The leaves and flowers of Bikovo carry a soft, lemony scent that feels fresh and light. Its simple white blooms are brushed with pale pink in the center, creating a delicate look.
It stays low to the ground and asks very little from you. You’ll see flowers appear from spring into summer. Plant it near a window or path to enjoy the subtle fragrance as you pass.
#2 Bergamot
Source: Britannica
Bergamot smells like oranges and often draws butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. Its flowers are cheerful and slightly wild-looking, bringing energy to garden corners.
This herb fits well in pots or flower beds. Choose a sunny spot and water regularly during dry spells. The scent intensifies when you brush the leaves.
#3 Orange Jessamine or Jesamine
Source: Gardeningknowhow
Orange Jessamine offers small white blossoms that release a scent similar to lemon or sweet orange. Native to tropical climates, it blooms throughout the year where it stays warm.
Gardeners in cooler zones can keep it in a container and move it indoors when needed. The fragrance fills a space quickly, especially in the evenings.
#4 Chinese Perfume Tree (Mock Lemon)
Source: Gardeningknowhow
This tree blooms with clusters of bright yellow flowers that carry a strong citrus aroma. It prefers a warm, tropical climate, but many people grow it indoors near a bright window.
The scent is lively and can make a room feel open and fresh. Even when it’s not in bloom, the glossy green leaves keep it looking vibrant.
#5 Iris ‘Blue Rhythm’
Source: Oaklandcemetery
With soft blue petals and a light lemon scent, ‘Blue Rhythm’ adds elegance to garden beds. It thrives in full sun and needs about six hours of light a day.
The scent isn’t overpowering but drifts in softly on warm afternoons. It pairs beautifully with white or yellow flowers. Plant in groups to enjoy more color and fragrance.
#6 Mock Orange
Source: Highcountrygardens
Mock Orange is named for its sweet orange blossom-like scent. Its white flowers open in early summer and offer a fresh, fruity aroma that lingers in the air.
It grows well in hedges or borders and attracts pollinators. Prune lightly after flowering to keep it tidy. Even a single shrub can scent a whole garden nook.
#7 Japanese Cheesewood
Source: Capetowninvasives
This evergreen shrub produces creamy clusters of flowers with a clean, citrusy fragrance. It’s known for being tough, even near salty coastal areas.
It does well in containers and thrives with little attention. The bloom period is short, but its scent makes a strong impression. Its compact shape makes it a good choice for patios or small gardens.
#8 Rose ‘Angel Face’
Source: Flickr
‘Angel Face’ is a unique rose with lavender-colored blooms and a fragrance that leans sweet with a hint of lemon. It’s loved for its beauty and bold scent.
This variety grows well in containers or flower beds. Give it full sun and water regularly to support healthy blooms. The citrus note becomes more noticeable in warm, dry air.
#9 Lemon Myrtle
Source: Smallgreenthings
Lemon Myrtle fills the air with a clean, sharp citrus scent, especially when the wind moves through its leaves. It flowers in creamy white clusters and often surprises people with how fragrant it is.
Beyond the garden, the leaves are also used in cooking and natural remedies. It likes sunlight and slightly moist soil. This plant feels both decorative and functional.
#10 Mexican Orange
Source: Harwoodslawncare
With blossoms that resemble orange flowers in both look and scent, this plant adds warmth and brightness to any space. The citrus aroma is soft but distinct, especially on sunny days.
You’ll notice more blooms in spring, but some may return later in the year. It’s compact, rounded, and easy to shape with light pruning. Works beautifully along paths or patios.
#11 Lemon-Scented Geranium
Source: Michlers
The scent of this plant lives mostly in its leaves. When touched, they release a burst of lemon fragrance that’s refreshing and clean. The flowers are smaller and not as strongly scented, but still charming.
It grows well in pots and prefers lots of light. People often place it near walkways or doorways for an occasional fragrant brush.
#12 Winter Daphne
Source: Thespruce
Winter Daphne is known for producing sweet, small flowers that some say smell like a mix of lemon and vanilla. Others find the scent softer, even floral without a citrus edge but everyone agrees it’s delightful.
It prefers partial shade and cool temperatures. Plant it near entrances or sitting areas to enjoy the blooms when little else is flowering.
#13 Gas Plant
Source: Gardeningknowhow
This unusual perennial gives off a distinct lemony aroma from both its leaves and flowers. The foliage is glossy and stays attractive even after flowering ends. Its purple-pink flowers bloom in upright clusters during early to midsummer.
It enjoys full sun and well-drained soil. Though slow to establish, once settled, it becomes a standout in fragrance and form.