Common Name

Scented Geraniums

Scientific Name

Pelagornium

Habit

Scented geraniums are not true geraniums. Although they are in the same family, Geramiaceae, and many share similar looking foliage, scented geraniums are members of an entirely different species, Pelagornium. Like geranium, the name pelagornium has Greek roots that refer to the long seed that the plant produces. Pelagornium means "stork," and geranos means "crane."

Hardiness

Ideal conditions are 65 to 75 degrees during the day, and 50 to 60 degrees at night. Unless you live in zone 10, bring indoors before the threat of frost - no lower than 40 degrees!

Soil & Site

Good drainage, with pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Do not over-fertilize, as nitrogen lessens fragrance. Epsom salts can be used occasionally in water to boost magnesium, which they thrive on. At least four hours of direct sun in winter. Prefer slightly dry. Water only when the top of the soil is dry.

History & Lore

Scented geraniums are native to South Africa, and were brought to England in the early 1600s. Scented geraniums soon became popular for use in making perfumes, and were cultivated in the warm coastal regions of Europe and Africa.

The colonists brought scented geraniums with them to America, and were even grown by Thomas Jefferson.

There are over 230 varieties of pelargonium, with scents such as mint, apple, rose, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pineapple. Citrus-scented pelargonium contain citronella, and have been used successfully to repel patio mosquitoes.

"These are plants all gardeners should have growing in their gardens, but few do." -David Daehnke, The Gardening Guru

Suggested Uses

Culinary      

Cut leaves finely and use to flavor cakes, jellies, syrups, sauces, and even vinegars. Lay whole leaves under cakes or shortbread, where they will release their subtle flavoring. Toss the delicate flowers into salads. Steep leaves in milk, and use for custards, puddings, or ice cream. Add fresh leaves to fruit dishes. Float lemon or lime scented geranium leaves in finger bowls. To make scented sugars, fill a glass jar with alternating layers of sugar and scented geranium leaves. Seal the jar tightly and place it in the sunlight for 2 weeks, turning the jar occasionally. Sift out the leaves and let your imagination decide where to sprinkle it!

Beauty

Rose geraniums produce an oil that is used in the synthesizing of rose fragrance. The dried leaves are also used in sachets and potpourri. Soaps and lotions made with the sharp, earthy scent of rose geranium are naturally soothing and lovely.

Health

Use for facial steams to keep your skin looking youthful. Like many beautifully-scented herbs, pelargonium is thought to calm the nerves and lift depression.

Fun Facts

Great for growing in pots or cascading from hanging baskets, since they like their roots to be crowded, but not root bound. Line a path or entranceway with scented geraniums to please passers by. Growing in pots makes it much easier to house them in cold weather.