Do Squirrels Like Rosemary? (2026 Guide)

By Sophia Martinez · January 23, 2026

Do Squirrels Like Rosemary?

No, squirrels generally do not like rosemary. The strong aromatic oils and pungent scent of rosemary act as a natural deterrent, making it unappealing to squirrels. This makes rosemary an excellent choice for gardeners looking to protect their plants without resorting to chemical repellents.

Why Squirrels Avoid Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) contains volatile compounds such as camphor, eucalyptol, and rosmarinic acid, which emit a sharp, herbal fragrance. These scents are unpleasant to many small animals, including squirrels. Unlike other herbs or plants that offer nuts, seeds, or tender foliage, rosemary provides little nutritional value and an undesirable taste.

Key Reasons Squirrels Avoid Rosemary

Strong Aroma: Essential oils in rosemary overwhelm squirrel senses.
Bitter Taste: The woody, resinous leaves are unpalatable.
No Food Value: Rosemary doesn’t produce nuts, fruits, or seeds that attract squirrels.
Natural Deterrent Properties: Often used in organic pest control strategies.

Rosemary in Squirrel-Prone Gardens

Gardeners in suburban and urban areas often struggle with squirrel activity—digging, chewing, and raiding bird feeders or vegetable patches. Incorporating rosemary into landscape design can help reduce unwanted visits.

Strategic Uses of Rosemary

Plant around flower beds to protect bulbs like tulips and crocuses, which squirrels love.
Use as a border plant near entry points to deter climbing or burrowing.
Mix dried rosemary sprigs with mulch to enhance repellent effect.

Plant Type	Squirrel Attraction Level (1-10)	Notes
Rosemary	1	Strong scent deters squirrels; rarely damaged.
Tulip Bulbs	9	Frequently dug up and eaten in spring.
Sunflower Seeds	10	Highly attractive; common target at feeders.
Lavender	2	Similar deterrent properties to rosemary.
Zucchini	6	Fruit may be nibbled if other food is scarce.

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that aromatic herbs like rosemary and lavender score very low on squirrel attraction, while bulbs and seeds are highly vulnerable. Strategic planting of low-attraction species can significantly reduce garden damage.

Alternative Natural Squirrel Deterrents

While rosemary is effective, combining it with other methods improves results:

Mint and Sage: Also emit strong scents disliked by squirrels.
Cayenne Pepper Sprays: Safe for plants and temporarily repels with heat.
Physical Barriers: Wire mesh around bulbs or raised beds.
Ultrasonic Repellers: Emit high-frequency sounds to discourage nesting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels and Rosemary

Will planting rosemary keep squirrels away from my garden?

Yes, rosemary can help deter squirrels due to its strong scent. While not 100% foolproof, it reduces the likelihood of squirrel activity when planted around vulnerable areas.

Can squirrels eat rosemary?

Technically yes, but they almost never do. Rosemary’s bitter taste and tough texture make it unappealing, even in times of food scarcity.

Are there any animals that like rosemary?

Bees and other pollinators are attracted to rosemary flowers. Rabbits and deer also tend to avoid it, making it a wildlife-friendly yet protective herb.