what perennials rabbits won't eat

2 min read 22-12-2024

Rabbits: adorable, destructive, and surprisingly discerning eaters. While they'll happily munch on most garden greenery, some perennials offer a surprising level of resistance. This guide explores perennials that typically escape bunny nibbling, helping you create a beautiful and rabbit-proof garden. Knowing what perennials rabbits won't eat is key to peaceful coexistence.

Understanding Rabbit Behavior

Before diving into specific plants, understanding rabbit feeding habits is crucial. Rabbits are driven by instinct and availability. A hungry rabbit might nibble at almost anything. However, certain plants possess qualities—like strong scents or textures—that deter them.

Factors that deter rabbits: Strong scents (like herbs), fuzzy or hairy leaves, and thorny or spiny textures.
Factors that attract rabbits: Tender young growth, lush green leaves, and readily accessible plants.
Environmental factors: A rabbit's diet varies seasonally and with food scarcity. A desperate rabbit is more likely to sample plants it usually avoids.

Top Perennials Rabbits Tend to Avoid

The following perennials are known for their rabbit resistance. However, remember that individual rabbits and situations may vary. It's always best to observe your garden's specific bunny population.

Herbaceous Perennials:

Lavender: The strong scent of lavender is a powerful deterrent. Plant it liberally throughout your garden for its fragrance and rabbit-repellent qualities.
Rosemary: This fragrant herb is another great choice. Its needle-like leaves are also less appealing to rabbits.
Sage: Similar to rosemary and lavender, sage's strong aroma usually keeps rabbits away.
Thyme: The woody, aromatic nature of thyme makes it less attractive.
Catmint (Nepeta): The strong scent, similar to catnip, generally deters rabbits. However, some rabbits may still nibble, especially if very hungry.
Coneflowers (Echinacea): These daisy-like flowers are tough and have somewhat coarse foliage that many rabbits avoid.

Ornamental Grasses:

Many ornamental grasses offer resilience to rabbit damage. Their tough leaves and often spiky textures are less desirable to rabbits.

Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis): This tall, airy grass is a beautiful addition to any garden, and rabbits usually leave it alone.
Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca): The blue-gray color and somewhat coarse texture of this grass make it less palatable.

Other Rabbit-Resistant Perennials:

Columbine (Aquilegia): These delicate-looking flowers often escape rabbit damage, likely due to their somewhat bitter leaves.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis): The foliage is somewhat unappetizing, and the plants themselves often do well under partial shade where rabbits may frequent less.
Peonies: While the tender young shoots can sometimes be a target, mature peony plants generally escape rabbit damage.
Sedum: The succulent leaves of sedum are usually avoided by rabbits.

Protecting Your Garden: Additional Tips

Even with rabbit-resistant plants, consider these extra precautions:

Fencing: A well-placed fence can be very effective. Ensure it's buried at least six inches deep to prevent digging.
Repellents: Commercial rabbit repellents can be useful, but remember they need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain.
Planting in containers: This can help protect some vulnerable plants, preventing easy access for rabbits.
Companion Planting: Some plants are naturally deterrent to other plants and pests, including rabbits.

Remember, there are no guarantees when it comes to rabbits and gardening. While these perennials offer better resistance than many others, a particularly hungry or determined rabbit might still sample them. Consistent observation, combined with the right precautions, is your best bet for a beautiful, rabbit-friendly garden. Happy gardening!