Scented Pelargoniums
The scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) is an aromatic plant prized for its fragrant foliage. Native to South Africa, this pelargonium releases essential oils with varied scents: lemon, rose, mint, lavender, cola, pine, or pineapple. Perfect for pots on a terrace or balcony, the scented geranium also acts as a natural mosquito repellent. Our nursery offers over 40 varieties of fragrant geraniums, all grown in our greenhouses in western France.
What is a scented geranium?
The scented geranium, also known as Pelargonium graveolens, is an aromatic perennial plant from the Geraniaceae family. Native to the mountainous regions of South Africa, this plant has been cultivated for centuries for its fragrant leaves and ornamental properties.
Unlike common geraniums (Pelargonium zonale), the scented geranium stands out for its highly aromatic foliage. Its lobed, velvety, and finely cut leaves measure 4 to 6 cm and are covered with glandular hairs that release wonderfully fragrant essential oils at the slightest touch.
Different scented geranium fragrances
Our collection of fragrant pelargoniums offers an incredible diversity of scents:
- Lemon scent: Pelargonium crispum, 'Lemon Fancy', 'Prince Ruppert', 'Kettelbaston'
- Rose scent: Pelargonium graveolens, 'Lady Plymouth', 'Robert's Lemon Rose', Pelargonium rosat
- Mint scent: Pelargonium tomentosum, with velvety leaves and intense minty fragrance
- Cola scent: Pelargonium 'Cola Bottle', a curiosity with soda-like notes
- Lavender scent: 'Brunswick', 'Deerwood Lavender'
- Spicy scent: Pelargonium quercifolium 'Royal Oak', with balsamic notes
- Pineapple scent: Pelargonium denticulatum, cut foliage and fruity fragrance
How to grow scented geraniums?
Light and location
Scented geraniums thrive in full sun to partial shade. A minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight per day promotes essential oil production and generous flowering. Place them on a terrace, balcony, windowsill, or in the ground in mild climate regions.
Which potting mix to use?
Choose a well-draining potting mix. Pelargoniums dislike excess moisture: ensure the pot has drainage holes and avoid letting water sit in the saucer.
Watering and fertilising
Scented geraniums are drought-tolerant. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. During the growing season, apply a balanced fertiliser every 2-3 weeks. Our slow-release fertiliser plugs make this task effortless.
Overwintering Pelargoniums
Scented geraniums are not frost-hardy (tolerating only light frosts to about -2°C). Before the first frosts, bring your plants indoors to a bright, cool room (8-12°C): a conservatory, cold greenhouse, or well-lit garage. Reduce watering significantly during this dormant period. In spring, prune lightly to encourage bushier growth.
Uses of scented geraniums
- Ornamental plant: in pots, planters, or summer bedding
- Aromatherapy: fresh leaves naturally scent any room
- Culinary: some varieties flavour desserts, infusions, and cocktails
- Natural repellent: the foliage deters mosquitoes and certain insects
- Cosmetics: rose geranium essential oil is prized in perfumery
Why buy your scented geraniums from Fuchsia Delhommeau?
Our family nursery, located in La Planche in western France, has been passionately growing pelargoniums for over 30 years. We guarantee:
- Plants grown in France, in our own greenhouses
- Eco-friendly cultivation, without synthetic pesticides
- Careful packaging for delivery in perfect condition
- A unique collection of over 40 varieties unavailable in garden centres