Brazilian health officials warn against garden plants that attract ticks

Brazil's Ministry of Health and municipal health agencies in Campinas and Jundiaí advise residents to avoid garden plants that create shaded, humid micro‑climates where ticks thrive. Species such as ivy, fern, hostas and tall ornamental grass retain moisture and provide hiding places for ticks, especially in areas with leaf litter, near wildlife habitats and riverbanks.

The agencies recommend using long clothing, repellents, and regular body and pet inspections after outdoor activities. Pruning dense vegetation, removing leaf piles and replacing attractive plants with aromatic species like rosemary, lavender or citronella can reduce tick presence. Scientific studies do not confirm that any single ornamental plant inherently attracts ticks, but the combination of shade and moisture does increase risk.