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Herbs
Pelargonium, Genus, graveolens, Species,
- Genus & species
Rose geranium
Overview
Pelargonium graveolens is a shrubby, evergreen perennial 2–4 feet (0.6–1.2 m) tall and 2–4 feet (0.6–1.2 m) wide, with a bushy, upright to rounded habit and soft, hairy, woody-based stems. Leaves are palmately lobed and deeply cut, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) across, grey-green, with soft hairs and a strong rose scent released when touched, from oil glands on the surface. Flowers are small, 0.5–0.75 inch (12–19 mm) across, pale pink to lilac-pink with darker purple veins on the upper two petals, borne in clusters of 5–10. Growth is fast, at 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) per year in warm conditions. The oil, mainly citronellol and geraniol, is distilled for perfumery. Plants are damaged by frost at 32°F (0°C) and rot in wet soil. Ingestion causes vomiting and skin irritation in dogs and cats.
Native Range
Native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa, growing on rocky slopes and in fynbos and scrub.Suggested Uses
Used in herb gardens, borders, and containers, spaced 24–30 inches (60–75 cm) apart. Leaves are used in potpourri, teas, baking, and essential oil production.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread2' - 4'
Colors
Bloom Information
Blooms from spring through summer (October–February in the southern hemisphere, April–September in the northern hemisphere), with sparse flowering on plants in low light. Flower clusters last 2–3 weeks and produce little nectar. Flowering is heaviest on plants in full sun.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Pale pink with purple veinsFoliage Description
Grey-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in full sun (6–8 hours) and sandy, gritty, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Hardy in USDA zones 10–11; plants are lifted or brought indoors where frost occurs. Established plants tolerate dry periods and are watered when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil is dry. Overwatering causes root and stem rot. Fertilizer is applied every 4–6 weeks in the growing season using a balanced formulation. Stem cuttings 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long root within 3–4 weeks.Pruning
Stems are cut back by one-third in early spring to promote branching and remove leggy growth. Tip pruning through summer maintains a compact form. Cuts are made just above a leaf node.Pruning Schedule
Prune: February–March
early spring
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons
