What Animals Eat Lavender? Full Guide 2026

By James Wilson · January 24, 2026

What Animals Eat Lavender?

Lavender is generally resistant to most herbivores due to its strong aromatic oils, but certain animals such as rabbits, deer, and some insects like aphids and spittlebugs may still feed on it, especially when other food sources are scarce. Understanding which animals interact with lavender helps gardeners protect their plants while supporting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Why Is Lavender Typically Resistant to Animal Feeding?

Lavender (Lavandula spp.) contains high levels of essential oils—primarily linalool and camphor—that give it a pungent scent and bitter taste. These natural compounds deter many herbivorous mammals and insects from consuming the plant.

Key Deterrent Properties of Lavender

Aromatic oils: Repel deer, rabbits, and rodents
Bitter foliage: Unpalatable to most grazing animals
Dry texture: Less appealing than succulent plants
Natural insecticides: Compounds like linalyl acetate discourage pests

Animals That May Eat or Damage Lavender

Despite its resistance, some animals will consume or damage lavender under specific conditions such as drought, overgrowth, or limited forage availability.

Mammals That Occasionally Feed on Lavender

Rabbits: May nibble young shoots or tender leaves, particularly in early spring
Deer: Rarely eat lavender but may browse it during food shortages
Groundhogs (woodchucks): Opportunistic feeders; may sample lavender if preferred plants are absent

Insects That Feed on Lavender

Aphids: Cluster on new growth, sucking sap and weakening plants
Spittlebugs: Produce frothy “spit” on stems; larvae feed on plant juices
Whiteflies: Found under leaves; cause yellowing and sooty mold
Lavender weevils: Nasty pests that notch leaf edges and lay eggs in stems

Beneficial Insects Attracted to Lavender

Lavender is highly attractive to pollinators and beneficial insects, making it a valuable companion plant in organic gardens.

Pollinators Drawn to Lavender Blooms

Honeybees: Strongly attracted to lavender nectar; crucial for honey production
Bumblebees: Efficient pollinators active in cooler temperatures
Butterflies: Including swallowtails and painted ladies, visit for nectar
Hoverflies: Larvae eat aphids; adults pollinate flowers

Animal	Feeds on Lavender?	Frequency	Plant Part Affected	Seasonal Activity
Deer	Occasionally	Low	Leaves, Flowers	Winter, Early Spring
Rabbits	Yes	Moderate	New Shoots, Stems	Spring, Fall
Aphids	Yes	High	New Growth, Buds	Spring to Summer
Honeybees	No (Pollinates)	Very High	Flowers (Nectar)	Summer
Spittlebugs	Yes	Moderate	Stems	Spring to Early Summer
Butterflies	No (Pollinates)	High	Flowers	Summer
Groundhogs	Rarely	Low	Leaves, Stems	Spring to Fall

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that while lavender attracts numerous beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, only a few pests and mammals regularly feed on it. Aphids are the most frequent damaging insect, while rabbits pose the greatest mammalian threat. Deer and groundhogs rarely consume lavender, confirming its status as a deer-resistant plant.

How to Protect Lavender from Animal Damage

Preventative measures can minimize feeding and ensure healthy plant growth.

Effective Protection Strategies

Install fencing: Use 2-foot wire mesh to deter rabbits
Use repellents: Apply organic sprays containing garlic or predator urine for deer
Encourage predators: Attract birds and beneficial insects to control aphids
Prune regularly: Prevent dense growth where pests like spittlebugs thrive
Plant in groups: Maximize fragrance dispersion to repel herbivores

Frequently Asked Questions About What Animals Eat Lavender

Do deer eat lavender plants?

Deer rarely eat lavender due to its strong scent and bitter taste. It is considered deer-resistant and is often recommended for landscapes prone to deer browsing. However, in times of food scarcity—especially during harsh winters—deer may occasionally nibble on lavender foliage.

Can rabbits destroy my lavender plants?

Yes, rabbits can damage lavender, especially young or tender plants in spring. They typically chew on low-growing stems and new shoots. Installing a small fence or using repellents can effectively protect lavender from rabbit feeding.

Are there any insects that harm lavender?

Yes, although lavender is pest-resistant, aphids, spittlebugs, whiteflies, and lavender weevils can infest it. Regular inspection and proper air circulation help prevent outbreaks. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil are effective organic treatments.

Do bees eat lavender?

Bees do not eat lavender leaves or stems. Instead, they collect nectar and pollen from lavender flowers for food. Lavender is one of the top bee-friendly plants and supports hive health, especially during summer bloom periods.

Is lavender toxic to pets like cats and dogs?

Lavender contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which are toxic to cats and dogs in large amounts. Mild exposure (e.g., sniffing) is usually safe, but ingestion can cause vomiting, reduced appetite, or skin irritation. Keep pets from chewing lavender plants, especially indoors.