Pelargonium crispum Variegatum

The scented Pelargonium crispum Variegatum, also known as Pelargonium 'Prince Rupert Variegated' gradually forms a small, evergreen shrub with an upright habit, appreciated for its superb crisp foliage with pleated edges, marginated with white and cream. The leaves release an intense fragrance that pleasantly resembles lemon when touched. It flowers from June to September, producing delicate, pale pink flowers with a purple centre, which are fairly large but not very abundant. Grow it in full sun, in well-drained soil as it is sensitive to excessive water. Planting it in the ground is only possible in our mildest regions that are not affected by frost.

Pelargonium crispum 'Variegatum' is derived from a botanical species endemic to the southwest of the Cape Province in South Africa, Pelargonium crispum. 'Variegatum' closely resembles it and forms a woody, perennial shrub with an upright habit, belonging to the geranium family. Its habit is supported by stiff, sturdy, sparsely branched stems, allowing the plant to reach a height of up to 1m (3ft) with a spread of 40cm (16in). The entire plant emits a very pleasant scent reminiscent of lemon. Its particularly ornamental foliage is composed of small, rounded leaves, divided into 3 lobes, undulate, strongly pleated at the edges, and measuring 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) wide. They have a very soft grey-green colour, marginated with white and pale yellow. The flowering takes place from June to September, with sparse flowers consisting of 5 pale pink petals marked with lines and red-purple stamens in the throat. They can reach up to 5cm (2in) in diameter.

With a simple touch, Pelargonium crispum 'Variegatum' releases a powerful fragrance and repels mosquitoes. Therefore, plant it in a pot or in the ground in a place where you can touch it and admire it, along a pathway or in a large pot on the terrace or veranda. Scented geraniums are precious for perfuming a room, where they delight us with their sometimes unexpected and wonderful scents. We were captivated one day after the rain by a bed of scented geraniums and spent a long time immersing ourselves in a symphony of delicate fragrances. It's one of our favourites, as you may have guessed. In mild climates, it is a plant that withstands summer drought perfectly and requires very little maintenance, making it valuable for dry gardens, especially those near the sea.

Its leaves are used in perfumery to extract an aromatic essential oil, and the English pick its flowers to flavor their jellies. Try using scented pelargonium flowers to flavour a recipe, it works! The edible leaves are used in fruit salads and potpourri.