Pelargonium
Pelargonium graveolens
Family: Geraniaceae · Also called Scented Geranium, Rose Geranium, Storksbill, Geranium radula, Geranium asperum, Geraniospermum terebintaceum
Earthy & Warm · Spring–Summer bloomer
Pelargoniums are the sensory wonder of the South African flora, touched, their leaves release an astonishing range of fragrances: rose, lemon, mint, nutmeg, chocolate, apple, and more, depending on species. The flowers are pretty but secondary; it's the aromatic foliage that made them Victorian parlor favorites and modern perfumery essentials.
comfort, preference, gentility
In the Victorian language of flowers, pelargonium means “Comfort and preference”. Often called 'geraniums' (incorrectly, true geraniums are different hardy plants). Victorian parlors prized scented pelargoniums for their aromatic leaves, rose, lemon, nutmeg, apple, and peppermint varieties lined windowsills. Pelargonium essential oil (geranium oil) is a major perfumery ingredient, produced primarily on Réunion Island and in Egypt.
Did You Know?
There are over 280 species of Pelargonium, nearly all from South Africa. 'Rose geranium' essential oil is produced from P. graveolens and is used in perfumery as a cheaper alternative to rose oil, it contains similar aromatic compounds (geraniol, citronellol). The scented leaves are used in cooking: rose pelargonium leaves pressed into cake tins impart a subtle rose flavor.
Rocky slopes, scrubland, and semi-arid regions of South Africa's Cape region
Pelargonium is native to South Africa. It naturally grows in rocky slopes, scrubland, and semi-arid regions of south africa's cape region.
Scent Profile
“Intensely aromatic foliage, the leaves release complex rose-citrus-mint-spice combinations when touched or crushed. Scented pelargoniums are grown more for their leaf fragrance than their flowers.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NamePelargonium graveolens
- FamilyGeraniaceae
- Native ToSouth Africa
- Bloom SeasonSpring–Summer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Often called 'geraniums' (incorrectly, true geraniums are different hardy plants). Victorian parlors prized scented pelargoniums for their aromatic leaves, rose, lemon, nutmeg, apple, and peppermint varieties lined windowsills. Pelargonium essential oil (geranium oil) is a major perfumery ingredient, produced primarily on Réunion Island and in Egypt.