Pelargonium graveolens
Pelargonium graveolens is the rose‑scented geranium grown mainly for its aromatic foliage. Plants are shrubby and multi‑branched with deeply cut, velvety leaves. Small pink to white flowers appear in season but are not the main show. It thrives in full sun to part shade with good drainage and modest feeding. It is tender to frost and most often grown as a container annual in North America. Regular pinching keeps plants full and brings the fragrance close to paths and seating.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Scented‑leaved geranium
- Height × spread: 18 to 36 in × 18 to 24 in (45 to 90 cm × 45 to 60 cm)
- Bloom window: Summer; sporadic in warm climates
- Color & flower form: Small pink to white clusters; foliage deeply cut and velvety
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: Zones 10 to 11; grown as annual elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Species; unknown; South Africa
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Grown for strongly scented leaves rather than showy flowers.
• Highest fragrance among commonly grown geranium types.
• Handles heat and leaner soils well.
• Ideal for pots where leaves can be brushed for scent.
Strengths
- Strong rose‑like leaf scent noted by botanic and extension sources.
• Performs in full sun to part shade with modest water.
• Useful in herb, sensory, and container gardens.
• Responds well to regular pinching and pruning.
Care in one minute
- Site in full sun to part shade with very well‑drained soil or potting mix.
• Water when the top inch of mix dries; do not keep constantly wet.
• Feed lightly about once a month in containers.
• Pinch stems often to maintain a compact form and increase branching.
• Inspect for aphids and mites; provide airflow to limit mildew.
• Overwinter indoors in bright light and cool temperatures.
Watch‑outs
- Not winter‑hardy; move indoors before frost.
• Can grow leggy without pinching.
• Minor skin irritation is possible for sensitive people when handling leaves.
• Overwatering can lead to root issues.
Best uses (tags)
containers; sensory gardens; borders; heat‑tolerant; drought‑tolerant
Provenance note
A South African species long grown for its essential oil and aromatic foliage; often grouped in the scented‑leaved Pelargonium class in horticulture.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Pelargonium (scented‑leaved group)
- NC State Extension – Pelargonium (genus overview, scented uses and minor skin irritation)
- SANBI – Pelargonium graveolens species profile
- ASPCA – Scented geranium toxicity to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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