Pelargonium graveolens /ˌpɛlɑːrˈɡoʊni.əm ɡraˈwe.ɔ.ɫẽːs/
Common name: Rose-scented geranium · Rose geranium · Sweet-scented geranium
Pelargonium graveolens is an evergreen, much-branched subshrub native to South Africa. Its softly hairy, deeply lobed leaves release a strong rose-like fragrance when brushed or crushed, and it bears small pale pink to whitish flowers with darker markings. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental and for its essential oil, known in perfumery as geranium oil.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Hardiness
Zones 9–11; protect from frost
Mature height
About 60–100 cm (2–3 ft)
Pet safe
No; toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
Stem cuttings root very easily. Take an 8-10 cm non-flowering tip cutting, remove the lower leaves, let the cut end dry for a few hours, and insert it into a gritty, just-moist potting mix; roots usually form within two to four weeks.
Fun facts
- Geranium essential oil, steam-distilled mainly from this species and its cultivars, is a staple of perfumery used to extend or substitute rose oil.
- The specific epithet "graveolens" is Latin for "strong-smelling."
- Réunion Island became famous for producing high-quality geranium oil, known there as "Bourbon" geranium oil.
- The scent comes from glandular hairs on the leaves, and it intensifies in warm, sunny conditions.