I used to think only grannies would appreciate these plants…but after growing a couple I completely understood!
Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium graveolens & P. spp.) are so easy in the garden, not fussing over water or care, and though their flowers are not showy as individuals, they are beautiful as they create a dainty profusion or mist over the foliage, even in hot, dry climates.
The foliage itself is somewhat ornamental, with soft lobed leaves, that may have geometric patterns, and release incredible scent when crushed.
One cool thing about all the so called “Geraniums” that are really Pelargoniums is that they are really dry heat tolerant, and do well in full sun and places with reflected heat that many other plants can’t handle.
Scented Geraniums come in a lot of different scents with various species and/or cultivars.
For example, there are: Almond, Apple, Apple/Mint, Apricot/Lemon, Balsam, Camphor, Celery, Cinnamon, Coconut, Eau de Cologne, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Lemon, Pineapple, Rose, Strawberry, and the list goes on!
The scent is only released when the leaves are brushed or crushed—the most notable are the rose scented varieties because they are used for the essential oil geraniol, useful in perfumery.
In traditional medicine, especially in African and Middle Eastern practices, the leaves and essential oil are used to treat gastrointestinal issues, respiratory infections, wounds, and skin disorders. Infusions or poultices made from the plant have been used to ease inflammation and promote emotional balance. In folk remedies, the oil has also been applied to repel insects and support hormonal balance.
Among the activities found through scientific investigation are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antidiabetic, anxiolytic, and wound-healing.
In one clinical study on Pelargonium graveolens essential oil, it was found to significantly reduce anxiety in women during labor. Another study showed that the oil promoted faster wound closure and tissue regeneration preclinically, supporting its use in skin-healing formulations.
Noted here is the species P. graveolens, the Rose Scented Geranium, which has inspired the development of numerous cultivars, many of which have at least a partial rose scent.
For example, there are several lemony rose scented cultivars, as well as minty rose cultivars.
Beyond collecting like a granny for the pure delight of these scented geraniums, you can enjoy their use in herbal baths (fill a mesh bag with leaves and place in a hot bath), steams, and potpourris.
One fun use, place a few leaves in the bottom of a jar, and cover with sugar. Leave a few days in a sunny windowsill, and then remove the leaves. What remains is a flavored/scented sugar!
*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.