If you live in an area with deer, you already know the struggle of growing a beautiful garden only to find it nibbled to the roots overnight.
But which plants are safe, and which ones are deer favorites?
credit:robertlandscapes.com
Let’s go plant-by-plant to explore what deer are likely to eat — and what they might avoid.
Do Deer Eat Zinnias?
Rarely.
Zinnias are typically deer-resistant due to their rough texture and strong scent.
However, in times of extreme hunger, deer may sample them.
Usually safe
Occasionally nibbled if food is scarce
Do Deer Eat Caladiums?
Sometimes.
Deer are attracted to the tender leaves of caladiums, especially younger plants. These tropical beauties can be vulnerable.
Moderately attractive to deer
Not deer-resistant
Do Deer Eat Coral Bells (Heuchera)?
Rarely.
Coral bells are generally deer-resistant, thanks to their bitter taste and slightly fuzzy leaves.
Good choice for deer-prone gardens
Do Deer Eat Penstemon?
Uncommon.
Penstemon has a taste and texture that deer usually dislike. It’s considered deer-resistant, especially mature plants.
Usually untouched
Great for native pollinator gardens
Do Deer Eat Clematis?
Sometimes.
Deer can and do eat clematis vines, particularly young shoots and buds. Older, woody vines are less appealing.
Needs protection in deer-heavy areas
Use fencing or repellents
Do Deer Eat Wildflowers?
It depends.
Deer may eat some wildflowers like sunflowers, coneflowers, or cosmos, but often avoid those with strong scents, hairy stems, or bitter sap.
Choose wisely — native wildflowers like yarrow or goldenrod are more resistant.
Do Deer Eat Peaches?
Yes!
Deer love peaches. They’ll eat the fruit, leaves, and even the bark of young trees.
Highly attractive Fencing is a must
Do Deer Eat Wisteria?
Occasionally.
Wisteria isn’t a top favorite, but deer will sample shoots and leaves if they can reach them.
Young plants are vulnerable Mature vines are more resilient
Do Deer Eat Tree Bark?
Yes.
In winter or food-scarce times, deer strip bark from trees, especially fruit trees and young saplings.
High-risk Use tree guards or wraps
Do Deer Eat Grass?
Yes.
Deer naturally graze on grass and clover, especially in open meadows.
Normal part of their diet
Do Deer Eat Millet?
Yes.
Millet is very palatable to deer, especially in grain or seed form.
Vulnerable crop Needs protection in fields
Do Deer Eat Celery?
Yes.
Celery is tender, moist, and an easy target for deer.
Frequently eaten in gardens
Do Deer Eat Cucumber Vines?
Yes.
Deer will munch on both cucumber vines and fruit. New growth is particularly tasty to them.
High-risk vegetable Use fencing or netting
Do Deer Eat Collard Greens?
Definitely.
Collards are like a salad bar for deer — they love leafy greens!
Very attractive to deer
Do Deer Eat Raspberries?
Yes.
Deer enjoy raspberry leaves, canes, and fruit. Even thorny stems don’t stop them.
Protect your berry patch
Do Deer Eat Hay Bales?
Sometimes.
Deer may graze on alfalfa or grass hay, especially during winter or if food is limited.
May visit hay storage areas
Do Deer Eat Popcorn?
Yes – if it’s accessible.
Deer love corn and may eat unpopped kernels or leftover cobs.
Keep it stored away securely
Do Deer Eat Straw?
No – not for food.
Deer don’t typically eat dry straw (it’s too tough and not nutritious), but may lay in it or trample it.
Safe as mulch
Not a food source
Do Deer Eat Fig Trees?
Yes.
Deer enjoy fig leaves and fruit, especially if the tree is young or low-growing.
Needs protection in deer-heavy zones
Do Deer Eat Gazania?
Rarely.
Gazania is a drought-tolerant, deer-resistant flower with leathery leaves that deer don’t favor.
Great for sunny, safe gardens
Do Deer Eat Celosia?
Rarely.
Celosia has a unique texture and is typically left alone by deer.
Good option for color and protection
Do Deer Eat Freesia?
Sometimes.
Freesia has a strong fragrance, which usually repels deer, but it’s not totally immune.
May get nibbled, especially in bud stage
Do Deer Eat Lobelia?
Occasionally.
Some lobelia varieties are mildly deer-resistant, but tender young plants may still be targeted.
Use in combination with more resistant species
Summary Table: Do Deer Eat These Plants?
| Plant | Deer Reaction | Deer-Resistant? |
|---|---|---|
| Zinnias | Occasionally | Yes |
| Caladiums | Sometimes | No |
| Coral Bells | Rarely | Yes |
| Penstemon | Rarely | Yes |
| Clematis | Sometimes | Partial |
| Wildflowers | Varies by species | Varies |
| Peaches | Yes | No |
| Wisteria | Occasionally | Partial |
| Tree Bark | Yes | No |
| Grass | Yes | Natural Diet |
| Millet | Yes | No |
| Celery | Yes | No |
| Cucumber Vines | Yes | No |
| Collard Greens | Yes | No |
| Raspberries | Yes | No |
| Hay Bales | Sometimes | Risky |
| Popcorn | Yes | No |
| Straw | No | Not Food |
| Fig Trees | Yes | No |
| Gazania | Rarely | Yes |
| Celosia | Rarely | Yes |
| Freesia | Sometimes | Partial |
| Lobelia | Occasionally | Partial |
Final Thoughts
Deer can be selective yet opportunistic eaters. While many of the plants listed are generally deer-resistant, no plant is completely safe during food shortages.
If you’re gardening in deer country, consider combining fencing, natural deterrents, and careful plant selection to protect your space.
