Pelargonium graveolens
Pelargonium graveolens
Rose-scented Geranium
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Taxonomy
Family Geraniaceae · Genus Pelargonium
Description
Pelargonium graveolens, better known as the rose-scented geranium, is a cheerful, aromatic subshrub prized for its velvety, rose-scented foliage and delicate pink blooms. It thrives in bright light, stays compact with a little pinching, and is forgiving of occasional drought—perfect for sunny windowsills, patios, or herb gardens in warm climates.
Common Names
Rose-scented GeraniumRose GeraniumSweet-scented GeraniumScented PelargoniumOld-fashioned Rose GeraniumEgyptian Geranium
Context
nativeRegion
Southern Africa (notably South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe)
usdaZones
9–11 (often grown as a summer annual or indoor plant elsewhere)
companionPlants
Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, Marigold, Salvia, Tomato
culturalUses
Leaves and essential oil (rose geranium oil) used in perfumery, aromatherapy, potpourri, and insect-repellent sachets; foliage flavors teas, syrups, and baked goods.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to bright light; 4–6+ hours of direct sun. Indoors, place near a south or west window.
WateringWater thoroughly, then let the top 1–2 inches dry. Drought tolerant; reduce watering in winter.
SoilVery well-drained, sandy or loamy mix. Use potting soil amended with perlite/pumice; pH 6.0–7.5.
FertilizerLight feeder. Apply a balanced fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength monthly in spring–summer; hold in winter.
HumidityAverage household humidity (30–50%) with good air circulation; dislikes persistently high humidity.
TemperatureIdeal 60–75°F (15–24°C). Keep above 50°F (10°C). Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAromatic, bushy evergreen subshrub with upright, branching stems and deeply lobed velvety leaves.
Mature SizeTypically 2–3 ft tall and wide in containers; up to ~4 ft in-ground in frost-free climates.
Growth RateModerate to fast growth in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingLate spring through summer; small pink to mauve flowers; deadhead to prolong bloom.
DormancyGrowth slows in winter; semi-dormant in cool, short-day conditions.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings (softwood or semi-ripe), Seed, Simple layering
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings; sow seed in spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch tips regularly for bushiness. Prune back by about one-third in early spring or after flowering; remove leggy or dead stems.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring, or when roots fill the pot. Prefers slightly root-bound conditions in a well-drained container.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, mealybugs, and caterpillars; fungal issues like Botrytis, rust, and root rot occur with overwatering or poor airflow.
ToxicityMildly toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested; may cause GI upset or skin irritation. Generally safe for people; essential oil can irritate sensitive skin.
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