attar of roses scented geranium leaf
What Are Scented Geraniums
Scented geraniums are charming plants with the most curiously fragrant foliage.
The leaves of these pelargoniums are naturally infused with scents ranging from fruity to spicy, citrus, rose, cinnamon, nutmeg, apple, almond, minty, even with a hint of chocolate.
Native to South Africa, Scented Geraniums were introduced to England in the 17th century. Scented geraniums were commonly planted in windowsill gardens in Victorian England. These gloriously scented plants also enjoyed popularity in France, especially the rose scented geraniums which were used in the perfume industry.
Some scented geranium plants also have vibrantly colourful flowers, enhancing their appeal in a mixed container planting.
Botanical name: Pelargonium
How To Grow Scented Geraniums
Scented geraniums grow extremely well in windowsill gardens, or as potted plants. They are also a superb container herb plant for apartment balcony gardens.
Overall, their shape and fragrance makes scented geraniums lovely house and garden plants.
Grow your scented geraniums close by, where you can brush up against them to release the scent from the fragrant pelargonium leaves.
Scented geraniums like full sun and well drained loamy soil. They tolerate dry conditions.
Scented geraniums are tender perennials – hardy in zones 10 and 11.
Occasionally prune the scented pelargonium plant to keep a nice shape, and to keep the plant from becoming leggy.
Propogating Scented Geraniums
Starting Scented Geraniums from cuttings is the preferred way to propagate these fragrant leafed plants.
If starting your scented geraniums from seed, plant the seeds indoors 12 weeks before you plan to set them outside.
Take plants outside only after all danger of frost is past.
Overwinter Scented Geraniums Indoors
Scented geraniums do not tolerate frost whatsoever, so bring them indoors before any danger of frost.
Although some people grow them as annuals, scented geraniums overwinter well indoors near a sunny window.
I keep mine in planters year round, taking the pots out in the late spring, and bringing them back indoors in September.
Prune back the leggy winter growth by about half.
And, remember to brush by the fragrant leaves occasionally. You will be rewarded with a whiff of glorious summer scents in the middle of winter.
Scented Geranium Uses
fingerbowl lemon scented geranium
Culinary
The fragrant scented geranium leaves are used to flavour preserves, baked goods, and herbal teas.
Not all the scented geraniums leaves taste edible. So, if you want to use your plant for culinary purposes, check the variety before you buy.
Fingerbowl lemon scented geranium has pretty petite leaves with a bright lemon scent. For a touch of Victorian elegance, place a few small leaves in fingerbowls to be used after a meal with messy finger foods. You and your guests will feel special.
Cosmetic
Scented geraniums are also used in perfumes, potpourris and ointments. Rose scented geraniums are especially lovely in potpourris as they retain their rose scent well when dried.
Mosquito Repellant
Over the past few years, a citrusy, citronella scented variety has been sold as a mosquito repelling plant. For maximum effectiveness, agitate the leaves of the plant to release its citrusy scent into the air around you.
Want an herb plant that’s a little different? Pick a scent, choose your scented geranium, and enjoy!
To your herb garden success,
Barb
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