Pelargonium citriodorum

Pelargonium 'Citriodorum' is commonly called the citron-scented geranium because of its aromatic foliage that releases a pleasant lemon scent, known to repel insects and mosquitoes. It is a small bush that bears palmate and lobed leathery leaves that are highly fragrant when touched. It discreetly blooms from June to September, bearing charming pale pink-mauve flowers with purple markings on the throat. It is perfect for flavouring jams, jellies, syrups, and teas. Grow it in full sun, in well-draining soil, as it is sensitive to excessive watering. Protect your pot from frost in winter, in a bright and cool location.

Pelargonium 'Citriodorum' is a botanical geranium native to South Africa. It is a woody and perennial bush with a rounded habit. It is sensitive to frost (-3°C (26.6°F)), but resistant to drought. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family. When grown in a pot, it reaches about 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in height and 40 to 45cm (16 to 18in) in width. The whole plant emits a pleasant smell reminiscent of lemon essence. Its ornamental foliage is composed of small rounded leaves divided into 5 lobes with strongly dentate edges, measuring 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) wide. They display a bright light green colour. Flowering occurs from June to September. It takes the form of small 5-petalled pale pink-mauve flowers with fine purple lines on the throat. They measure about 3cm (1in) in diameter. The foliage persists all year round if there is no frost. In milder, coastal regions, this pelargonium can be grown in the ground, where it will reach 1.5m (5ft) in height and 1m (3ft) in width.

With a simple touch, Pelargonium 'Citriodorum' releases a delightful fragrance that has the added bonus of repelling mosquitoes. Plant it in a pot or in the ground in a place where you can touch it and pick its leaves as needed. It will look wonderful on a patio or in a conservatory. Scented geraniums are appreciated for perfuming the home, where they delight us with their unexpected and wonderful scents. After rainfall one day, we came across a bed of scented geraniums and spent a long time immersing ourselves in a symphony of delicate scents. It is one of our favourites, as you may have guessed! In mild climates, it perfectly withstands summer drought and requires very little maintenance, making it valuable for dry gardens, by the seaside.

Its leaves are used in perfumery to extract an essential oil. The flowers can be used to flavour jellies, and the edible leaves can be used in fruit salads. The leaves are also used in potpourri.