Pelargonium capitatum

The Rose-Scented Pelargonium is a beautiful indigenous, spreading plant with soft, aromatic foliage and delicate clusters of soft pink flowers. In the Western Cape, it flowers mainly from spring into summer, often beginning its display from September. The small flowers have darker markings on the upper petals, while the the soft, grey-green, lobed leaves rounded, release a lovely rose-like fragrance when touched or crushed. Its spreading growth makes it ideal for groundcover, rockeries, borders, containers, hanging baskets and coastal gardens, where it can cascade beautifully over walls and banks. Best planted in full sun in well-drained soil. It is hardy, water-wise once established and particularly well suited to sandy coastal conditions.

Why You'll Love It:

• Beautiful pink to mauve flowers bring seasonal colour to the garden.
• Fragrant foliage releases a delightful rose-like scent when touched.
• A hardy, water-wise choice once established.
• Perfect for groundcover, containers, hanging baskets and coastal gardens.
• A proudly indigenous South African plant that suits Western Cape conditions.

Plant & Care

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun, although it will tolerate some light semi-shade. Plant with plenty of room for its spreading habit. Water regularly while establishing, then reduce watering once established, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid poorly drained or waterlogged areas, particularly during Cape Town’s wetter winter months. Trim lightly after flowering if needed to tidy the plant, control its spread or encourage fresh growth. Little feeding is usually needed once established; in containers, a light feed during active growth can be beneficial.

Did You Know?

The leaves of Pelargonium capitatum release a distinctive rose-like fragrance when touched or crushed. Its seeds are equally fascinating, with long, feather-like tails that twist in response to changing moisture levels, helping the seeds work their way into the soil.