Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Pelargonium graveolens
Also known as
Rose Pelargonium, Wildemalva, Roosmalva (Afr.), Geranium, Rose geranium, Sweet-scented geranium
Photo by CandideUK (All rights reserved)
Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
8a-11b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1.3m | Max | 1m |
1m | Min | 80cm |
1 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a strong fragrance
More images of Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Rose-Scented Pelargonium Overview
Pelargonium graveolens with its strongly rose-scented leaves and pinkish-white flowers is an interesting addition to the mixed border. Plant in a rockery where it can scramble over rocks. Rose pelargonium is grown mostly for its ornamental purposes and its oil. This vigorous bush shrub releases a rose-like sent when rubbing the leaves. Also known as Rose geranium, however it does not belong to the Geranium genus. ZA Distribution: Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga.
Common problems with Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Susceptible to whitefly and aphids. Spray with organic insecticides to control and encourage beneficial predators like lady bugs.
Rose-Scented Pelargonium Companion Plants
Plant next to cabbages to repel the white cabbage butterfly. Edge your vegetable garden with any of the scented geramiums, their wonderful scent will lure insects away from the fruit and vegetables.
How to harvest Rose-Scented Pelargonium
For culinary use, leaves and flowers can be harvested throughout the growing season. For oil production the leaves and young shoots are harvested 3 to 4 times per year from 6 months after planting.
How to propagate Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Seed
Sow seed in later winter or early spring.
Cuttings
Take softwood cuttings in spring, late summer and early autumn.
Special features of Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Pot plant
Good container plant if placed in semi shaded position.
Attracts useful insects
Bees feed on the flowers.
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Rose-Scented Pelargonium
Grown for their foliage and colourful flowers. Some are grown for the fragrance of their leaves. They are useful in pots or as bedding plants; in warm conditions flowers are borne almost continuously. Suitable for coastal conditions.
Edible
Leaves and flowers are edible, but leaves have more powerful fragrance and used in flavouring baking.
Insect repellant
Mosquitoes, flies and horseflies can't bear the smell of any scented geraniums, rub the leaves and sprigs onto counter tops and windowsills, over blankets and pillows to keep these pests away.
