Scented geraniums, or Pelargonium spp
Scented geraniums are variable species of pelargoniums characterised by their pungent scented leaves. The leaves may be large or small, entire or deeply toothed, green, grey or variegated. The flowers are five petalled with the top two being larger than the bottom three and they vary in size from 0.5-4cm and in colour from white through pale pink to deep purple. They are so variable that it is impossible to provide detailed descriptions here. However there are many texts and nurseries or societies specialising in geraniums. According to one authority the fragrance of scented geraniums can be classified as rose, mint, lemon, nut, spice and pungent. It is sometimes difficult to classify these plants as they are subject to hybridization. I am an avid scented geranium collector and this is a list of the fragrances I have collected. Rose, peppermint, lemon, lemon-rose, balsam, menthol, citronella, all spice, velvet leaf mint, chocolate, orange, lime, cinnamon, oak, camphor, coconut, apricot, strawberry, and ginger. I am still searching for more!
Scented geraniums grow freely in their native country of South Africa. They were first introduced to Britain from there around 1631 at a time when botanists were seeking as many new species of plants as they could get their hands on. They became popular and a widespread garden plant throughout Europe. With colonial expansion they became established in other countries. It is thought that P.australe may be one such case of naturalisation rather than being indigenous to Australia. It is believed that there were over 200 distinct species growing in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, but they have suffered from periods of neglect since then and today there is believed to be more like 100 remaining. In the 18th century rose-scented geraniums were grown for their essential oil which was used in place of the more expensive oil of roses. Geraniums were often planted along pathways and even on staircases in pots, as the scents were released by the long skirts of ladies brushing against them.
Geraniums were sniffed in ancient times for sensory pleasure as well as to protect from airborne germs. The leaves of the geraniums were bruised and used as a poultice applied to cuts and abrasions helping to reduce the risk of infection as they have quite pronounced antiseptic properties. Those of us who use oils as antiseptics today could try using rose geranium as it will disinfect, smell great and make you smile!
The most useful culinary scented geraniums are rose, peppermint and lemon as the others may be bitter. Small quantities may be added to flavour vinegars, oils, fruit cups and fruit salads, puddings, jellies, cakes and jams. Either chop finely or place whole leaves on top or under whatever mixture is being prepared. I have layered a cake tin with peppermint leaves and removed them before eating. This delivers a mild yet recognisable minty flavour to a cake. The leaves are delightful and a favourite of mine made as a tea. Infuse for a short period and strain any leaf before drinking. Do not leave too long as the tea may become bitter. The flowers are edible and make a superb addition to a salad.
The leaves and flowers may be dried and added to pot pourri and other fragrant crafts as they hold their scent really well. The smaller species are suitable for pressed flower crafts.
The fragrance of scented geraniums is released naturally when the weather is hot or by rubbing or brushing against leaves. Plant in areas where they will be disturbed. The lemon scented varieties grow quickly and will smother smaller plants and weeds.
The oils contained from many varieties of geranium are used in perfumes worldwide.
Geraniums are generally propagated from cutting taken in autumn from sturdy side shoots having several pairs of leaves. They should be cut just below a node with a sharp clean knife, most leaves removed and left for several hours to let the wound heal over before planting. They will root easily in sand or in moist sandy compost in a warm position. Grown outside they will flourish in average well drained soil in a sunny position. Most are frost tender and in cooler regions will suffer or die during winter unless heavily mulched. Pruning should be left until spring to give protection to the base of the plant in cold regions. If kept as pot plants inside they need well lit position with several hours of sun. Shade will weaken the scent, reduce the flowers and weaken the plant making it susceptible to disease and insect attack.
As I have mentioned scented geraniums are one of my favourite smelly plants, so be aware of the possibility of addiction if you start collecting!! Happy gardening, Judy
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