Pelargonium Graveolens | Geranium

Add fragrance, texture and seasonal colour to your garden with the delightful Rose-Scented Geranium, a South African indigenous pelargonium with wonderfully aromatic foliage. Its soft, velvety leaves are deeply divided and release a distinctive rose-like fragrance when touched, while delicate clusters of white to soft pink flowers appear from August to January, covering late winter through summer and reaching their main flowering peak during September and October in Cape Town.

This branching, upright plant is an excellent choice for mixed borders, fragrant gardens, containers and sheltered planting areas, where its unusual foliage adds interest even when it is not flowering. It naturally grows in relatively moist, sheltered mountain habitats and performs particularly well in semi-shade or gentle morning and afternoon sun, making it a useful choice for gardeners looking for an indigenous plant for a less exposed position.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Fragrant, rose-scented foliage
• Hardy, evergreen perennial shrub
• Waterwise and drought tolerant once established
• Ideal for sunny gardens, pots, and herb gardens
• Attracts pollinators when in flower
• Excellent for Western Cape conditions
• Traditionally used in natural remedies and scented gardens

Planting & Care:

Plant Pelargonium graveolens in full sun to light shade in well-draining soil. Water regularly while establishing, then reduce watering as the plant matures. Prune lightly and often to encourage bushy growth and fresh new foliage. Feed in spring with a balanced or organic fertiliser. Protect from heavy frost in colder areas.

Did You Know?

Pelargonium graveolens has a fascinating connection with the perfume industry: its strongly scented leaves are used to produce geranium oil, which has traditionally been used as a rose-like fragrance in perfumery. The species name graveolens is also a clue to its character, referring to its strong scent.