How to Identify Common NYC Plants by Smell

While you’re strolling through one of New York City’s urban forests or parks, you will likely come across a wide range of species! It’s not always easy to tell some plants apart visually, but one other sense you can rely on is smell! Read on below for a list of seven plants and their notable scents.

1. Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)

Smells like: fruit loops

2. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Smells like: pepper and sage

3. Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

Smells like: citrus

4. Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

Smells like: garlic

5. Birch (Betula lenta)

Smells like: root beer

6. Wild chive (Allium schoenoprasum)

Smells like: onion

7. Black cherry (Prunus serotina)

Smells like: tar, asphalt

Check out our Plant Scent Test video series for more information about these species!