Lemon-scented geranium Pelargonium 'Citriodorum' (Sc)

👤 Non-toxic to humans

🐾 Non-toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

The plant in question is commonly known as the lemon-scented geranium. It is characterized by its lush green foliage which exudes a strong citrus fragrance, reminiscent of lemons, when touched or gently rubbed. The leaves are quite distinctive, with a rounded shape and slightly scalloped or lobed edges, giving them a somewhat lacy appearance. They are held aloft on sturdy stems, creating a dense and bushy habit. Throughout the warmer months, the lemon-scented geranium may produce small, delicate flowers. These blooms are typically found in clusters and can range in color from pale lavender to pinkish-purple, adding a subtle splash of color against the greenery. The blossoms have slender petals that are rounded at the tips, and they may feature darker markings or veins which add to their decorative appeal. Overall, the plant presents a harmonious blend of fragrant foliage and charming flowers, making it a favorite for sensory gardens and spaces where its lemony scent can be enjoyed to the fullest. Its visual appeal is enhanced by the textured leaves and the occasional appearance of its whimsical flowers.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Geraniaceae.
- Synonyms
  Lemon-Scented Pelargonium, Mosquito Plant, Citronella Plant, Citrosa Geranium, Citronella Geranium.
- Common names
  Pelargonium 'Citrosum', Pelargonium graveolens 'Citrosa'.
Toxicity
- To humans
  The plant commonly known as the scented geranium is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, ingestion of plant parts in large quantities may potentially cause mild irritation in some individuals, such as stomach upset or dermatitis upon contact with the skin. It is generally recommended to avoid eating the plant to prevent any possible negative effects.
- To pets
  Scented geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If ingested, pets might exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, and dermatitis. In severe cases, the ingestion might also lead to more serious consequences like hypothermia. It is advisable to keep this plant out of reach of pets to avoid such risks.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Evergreen
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Varies
- Height
  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
- Spread
  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
- Plant type
  Herb
- Hardiness zones
  10
- Native area
  South Africa

Benefits

General Benefits
- Repellent Against Insects: Natural oil in lemon-scented geranium leaves emits a fragrance that can repel mosquitoes and other pests.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its attractive foliage and colorful blooms, lemon-scented geraniums are popular for adding visual interest to gardens and homes.
- Aromatherapy: The refreshing citrus scent of the leaves is often used for relaxation and stress relief in aromatherapy practices.
- Culinary Use: Some varieties of lemon-scented geraniums have edible flowers and leaves that can add a citrus flavor to culinary dishes.
- Easy Maintenance: Lemon-scented geraniums are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for gardeners with varying levels of experience.
- Drought Resistance: These plants are fairly drought-tolerant once established, which can be beneficial in areas with water restrictions or less frequent rainfall.
Medical Properties
- Antimicrobial: The essential oils of the Lemon-scented Pelargonium have shown some antimicrobial properties against a variety of pathogens.
- Antifungal: It has potential antifungal effects, particularly in treating certain skin conditions.
- Aromatherapy: The scent of Lemon-scented Pelargonium is used in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing effects.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant has been associated with reducing inflammation, although clinical evidence is limited.
- Analgesic: There are anecdotal reports of its use in relieving mild pain.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Pest Deterrent: Pelargonium citriodorum's strong citrus scent is often used to repel mosquitos and other insects naturally in gardens and patios.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners plant it alongside vegetables and herbs to protect them from pests, thanks to its insect-repelling properties.
- Flavoring Agent: The leaves are sometimes incorporated into culinary dishes, jellies, and desserts for a subtle lemony flavor.
- Decorative Potpourri: The scented leaves can be dried and added to potpourri mixes to impart a fresh, lemony aroma to a room.
- Natural Deodorizer: Fresh leaves are placed in closets or drawers to impart their fragrance and freshen up the space.
- Plant Dye: The leaves can be used to produce a green dye for coloring fabrics or crafts.
- Bookmarks: Dried leaves are sometimes used as aromatic bookmarks, giving off a pleasant scent when placed inside a book.
- Relaxant: The fragrance of the plant is said to have a calming effect, so it might be used in settings where stress reduction is desired, like spas.
- Artistic Inspiration: Its vibrant flowers and aromatic leaves can serve as the subject matter for botanical art and photography.
- Floral Arrangements: The fanciful blooms and scented leaves are used in floral arrangements to add both visual beauty and fragrance.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Lemon Scented Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Lemon Scented Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
The most common common name for Pelargonium 'Citriodorum' is the Lemon-Scented Geranium. Below is the list of its symbolic meanings:
- Refreshment - The citrus scent of the Lemon-Scented Geranium is associated with a rejuvenating and refreshing effect on the senses.
- Healing - Historically, geraniums have been used for their healing properties in herbal medicine, and the lemon-scented variety carries connotations of health and healing.
- Friendship - Geraniums in general symbolize friendship, and the pleasant lemon scent of this variety may enhance this symbolism with its warm, inviting fragrance.
- Positivity - The bright and cheery scent can represent a positive outlook and the uplifting of spirits.
- Clarity - The clear, clean aroma of the Lemon-Scented Geranium is often associated with mental clarity and the clearing of confusion.

💧

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 1-2 years

Repotting

🌱️

Spring-Early Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
The Scented Geranium, commonly known as Pelargonium 'Citriodorum', requires thorough watering when the soil's surface feels dry to the touch. During active growth in the spring and summer, water it every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant during each watering session is sufficient. Cut back on watering in the fall and winter to every 2-3 weeks. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important not to let the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
Light
Scented Geraniums thrive in bright, indirect light and can tolerate direct morning light or late afternoon sun. A spot near a south, east, or west-facing window is ideal, where they can receive at least 6 hours of daylight. Avoid placing them in harsh, direct midday sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. Adequate lighting is crucial for keeping these plants healthy and encouraging blooming.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the Scented Geranium is between 55°F and 70°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of 30°F but should be protected from frost. It is crucial to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below freezing as it can cause severe damage or death to the plant.
Pruning
Prune Scented Geraniums to encourage bushier growth, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and maintain the desired shape. It is best to prune in early spring before new growth begins. Regularly pinching off the tips of the stems can also promote a fuller plant. Prune up to once a month during the active growing season.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Scented Geraniums, such as Pelargonium 'Citriodorum', thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix consists of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil to ensure adequate drainage and aeration for healthy root growth.
Repotting
Scented Geraniums should be repotted annually, preferably in spring, to replenish nutrients and accommodate growth. If the plant grows too rapidly or shows signs of being root-bound, repotting may be needed more frequently.
Humidity & Misting
Scented Geraniums prefer moderate to slightly high humidity levels, around 40-60%. These plants are adaptable, but avoiding excessively dry air will help keep the foliage lush and healthy.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place in bright light and water when dry.
- Outdoor
  Need full to partial sun, shelter from winds.
- Hardiness zone
  9-11 USDA
Life cycle
Pelargonium 'Citriodorum', commonly known as Lemon-scented Geranium, begins its life cycle when its seeds are sown in well-drained soil and germinate, which generally takes a week or two depending upon growing conditions like temperature and moisture. After germination, the seedlings emerge and enter the vegetative growth phase, developing a robust root system and foliage characterized by the distinctive lemon scent when leaves are crushed. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing small clusters of flowers that can range in color from white to pink, depending on the variety. These flowers are capable of attracting pollinators, though many Pelargonium varieties are also propagated via cuttings, which skip the seed stage and go straight to vegetative growth when rooted. Following pollination, the plant forms seeds that can be collected and used to propagate new plants, completing the reproductive cycle. With proper care, including pruning and protection from frost, Lemon-scented Geranium can survive for several years, making it a perennial in climates without harsh winters, while in colder regions, it is often grown as an annual or brought indoors during winter.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring-Early Summer
- The most popular method of propagating Pelargonium 'Citrosum', commonly known as the Mosquito Plant, is through stem cuttings. This is often done in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is cut from the parent plant using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least two sets of leaf nodes are beneath the soil surface. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cutting should be placed in indirect sunlight until roots develop, which generally takes about 2 to 4 weeks. Once rooted, the new Mosquito Plant can be transferred to a larger pot or the garden.