With an increase in cases of snakebites leading to poisoning and even death, it’s important to take precautions. Avoid handling or playing with snakes, and refrain from planting certain plants that may attract them. Additionally, be cautious when choosing plants for your home as some may inadvertently create a dangerous environment by inviting these reptiles.
According to folklore, certain plants are believed to possess an alluring quality for snakes. These include:
- White Snake Herb (also known as White Snake’s Tongue, Bo Nui Bo, Xa Thiet Thao, and Xa Cham Thao): This perennial herb is commonly found along roadsides and in damp, cool areas throughout Vietnam. Its presence is often associated with that of snakes.

The presence of this herb is often linked to the presence of snakes.
- White Flower (also known as White Egret Flower, Leaf Gall, and Bach Tuyet Flower): This plant thrives in damp, shady areas. Although it is a valuable medicinal herb used to treat various ailments such as skin inflammation, gallstones, hepatitis, cancer, and vision improvement, its fragrance is particularly attractive to snakes.
- Purple Salann is a sweet fruit when ripe and is a favorite food of mice, squirrels, and hedgehogs. Since snakes prey on these animals, they are drawn to the areas where Purple Salann grows during the fruiting season. This plant typically grows in clusters along stream banks and forest edges, in damp and shady spots. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid areas with Purple Salann during its fruiting season to minimize the risk of snakebites.
- Pineapple Plant: The sweet, aromatic fruit of the pineapple plant is highly appealing to snakes. For safety reasons, it is common to plant pineapples in gardens away from homes.

Flowers such as bougainvillea and Chinese wisteria, which can form large vines, create a cool space that attracts green snakes. It is recommended that women do not plant these around their homes.
Additionally, certain flowers and herbs, such as jasmine, night-blooming jasmine, lemongrass, and bindweed, may also attract snakes due to their fragrant scents. However, the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides can reduce this attraction.
Plants that Repel Snakes
To deter snakes from entering your home, consider planting the following plants known for their snake-repelling properties:
Leek Plant (also known as Garlic Chives, Chinese Chives): This plant has a strong aroma that snakes find repulsive. Plant it around your garden, yard, or fence to create an effective barrier.
Garlic Vine (also known as Sky Flower or Garlic Lantern): With its climbing habit and purple flowers, this plant emits a pungent odor that snakes tend to avoid. Consider planting a garlic vine trellis near your gate or fence to deter snakes from entering your property.
Chinese Potato (Kat-Kham, White Kat): The resin of the Chinese potato plant is known to instill fear in snakes, causing them to stay away. If you have a spacious garden, consider adding a few Chinese potato bushes to your landscape to keep snakes at bay.
Lemongrass: When crushed or bruised, lemongrass stalks release a potent oil that repels snakes. However, leaving the lemongrass in clumps may provide shelter for snakes seeking shade. Therefore, it is recommended to plant lemongrass throughout your garden for optimal effectiveness.
Aromatic Plants: Plants such as mint, rosemary, and marigolds have strong scents that snakes find unpleasant. Including these plants in your garden can help create a natural barrier against snakes.
Keep in mind that adopting a dog or cat can also help deter snakes while reducing the presence of mice, a favorite food source for snakes.
5 Types of snake-attracting plants that you must remove immediately: Number 1 is a favorite of many homeowners who love to plant

Our ancestors have learned through experience that in order to prevent snakes from coming into their homes, they should not plant these 5 types of trees as they are the “ideal habitat” for snakes.