Scented-leaf geraniums to grow

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Monday, 3 June 2019 at 7:59 am

We share six of our favourite scented-leaf geraniums (pelargoniums) to grow.

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Most geraniums (pelargoniums) have aromatic leaves, but some varieties are particularly fragrant. The range of scents is amazing and includes lemon, ginger, rose and strawberry.

Both the blooms and foliage are edible and you can use them to flavour drinks, cakes and jellies.

Best of all, scented-leaf geraniums are exceptionally easy to grow. Remember, though, that they need to be moved to a frost-free spot in winter.

'Attar of Roses'

Pelargonium 'Attar of Roses'

'Attar of Roses' is one of the best known scented-leaf pelargoniums and has both foliage and flowers that release a lovely rose scent. As with other pelargoniums, regular deadheading will ensure a regular supply of flowers.

'Odorata Hazelnut'

Pelargonium 'Odorata Hazelnut'

This gorgeous, crimson-flowered cultivar is one of the few with hazelnut-scented foliage.

'Ashby'

Pelargonium 'Ashby'

Like 'Attar of Roses', 'Ashby' has rose-scented leaves, but differs with its flamboyant pink flowers and glossier foliage. It has a partially prostrate habit, slightly cascading over the edges of the container.

'Shottesham Pet'

Pelargonium 'Shottesham Pet'

The ruffled leaves of 'Shottesham Pet' have a lovely spicy aroma that intensifies when crushed or bruised. Delicate ruby-red flowers set the foliage off to perfection.

'Bitter Lemon'

Pelargonium 'Bitter Lemon'

Pelargonium 'Bitter Lemon' has rich green foliage with a zingy lemon fragrance. It bears beautiful white flowers, which open to reveal delicate pink veining towards the centre.

'Lady Plymouth'

Pelargonium 'Lady Plymouth'

'Lady Plymouth' has attractive silvery leaves with an aroma that combines roses and fresh mint. This old variety has been around for over 200 years and has attractively cut foliage - the perfect foil to its pale pink blooms.

Stand of pelargoniums

More scented-leaf pelargoniums to grow

Citrus: 'Poquita', Pelargonium x nervosum, 'Prince of Orange'
Ginger: 'Cola Bottles'
Balsam: 'Sweet Mimosa', Pelargonium panduriforme, 'Royal Oak,
Mint: Pelargonium tomentosum
Strawberry: Pelargonium x scarboroviae

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