Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum' Pelargonium (Fragrans Group) 'Fragrans Variegatum' (Sc/v)

👤 Non-toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

'Fragrans Variegatum' has dainty white flowers held in umbels above small rounded leaves that are subtly variegated with lime-green and mid-green markings. Leaves smell pleasantly aromatic when rubbed

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Geraniaceae
- Synonyms
  Variegated Mint Rose, Variegated Nutmeg Geranium, Variegated Fragrant Geranium
- Common names
  Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum'.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Evergreen
- Color of leaves
  Variegated
- Flower color
  Mixed
- 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
- Ornamental Appeal: The plant has variegated foliage that adds visual interest to gardens and indoor spaces.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Fragrance: The leaves release a pleasant fragrance when touched or brushed against, enhancing the sensory experience in a garden or home.
- Drought Tolerant: It is relatively drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering once established, which is beneficial in areas with water restrictions or for conserving water.
- Pest Resistant: The plant has natural resistance to certain pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Long Blooming: It produces flowers for an extended period, often from spring to fall, providing long-lasting color in the landscape.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, it is an excellent choice for balconies, patios, or indoor windowsills.
- Edging Plant: Its compact growth habit makes it useful for borders or edging in garden design.
Medical Properties
- Antiseptic - The essential oils of certain Pelargonium species are believed to have antiseptic properties which may help in disinfecting wounds.
- Anti-inflammatory - Compounds found in the plant may reduce inflammation, although specific studies on 'Fragrans Variegatum' are lacking.
- Analgesic - Some members of Pelargonium have been used traditionally to alleviate pain.
- Relief from respiratory conditions - Traditional use includes treatment for symptoms of the common cold, such as sore throats, due to its soothing properties.
- Anti-anxiety and calming effects - The scent of the plant is said to have a calming effect, which could help to relieve stress and anxiety, though rigorous evidence for this effect is limited.
Please note that the medical uses listed here are based on traditional or anecdotal evidence, and there is limited scientific research specifically on Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum'. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Repellent sachets: Dried leaves of scented geraniums can be placed in sachets to repel moths and other insects from closets and drawers.
- Natural shoe deodorizer: The leaves can be placed inside shoes to provide a natural deodorizing effect and impart a pleasant fragrance.
- Plant dye: The flowers and leaves can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from green to yellow, depending on the mordant used.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oil derived from the plant can be used in aromatherapy for stress relief and to create a relaxing atmosphere in the home.
- Gourmet garnish: The edible flowers can be used as a decorative and aromatic garnish for desserts and drinks.
- Flavoring agent: Leaves of the scented geranium can be infused in sugar or used to flavor jellies, ice creams, and baked goods with its distinctive lemony scent.
- Book freshener: Dried leaves can be tucked between the pages of books to impart a mild fragrance and deter insects.
- Homemade potpourri: The dried leaves and flowers can be mixed with other herbs and spices to create a long-lasting potpourri.
- Floral crafts: Fresh or dried flowers and foliage can be incorporated into wreaths, bouquets, and other decorative crafts.
- Bath additive: Fresh or dried leaves can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and relaxing experience.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The plant Pelargonium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The plant Pelargonium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Comfort and Healing: Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum', commonly known as Scented Geranium, is often associated with comfort due to its pleasant fragrance. The scent is believed to have a soothing effect, which can aid in relaxation and healing.
- Friendship: Scented Geraniums have been exchanged among friends as a symbol of friendship and well-wishing, possibly because plants themselves are nurturing and supportive in their environments.
- Harmony: The balanced variegated foliage of the 'Fragrans Variegatum' Scented Geranium suggests harmony in one’s surroundings. It is seen as a plant that promotes balance and tranquility.
- Positive Energy: The refreshing scent of the Scented Geranium is thought to contribute to clearing negative energy and promoting a positive atmosphere in the home.
- Protection: Historically, geraniums have been planted in gardens and around homes as a protective charm. The Scented Geranium’s strong aroma was believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.

💧

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

☀️

500 - 2500 Lux

Light

💦️

40%

Humidity

🪴

Every 1-2 years

Repotting

🌱️

Spring-Early Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
For the Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum,' water moderately, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering every 7 to 10 days is sufficient, depending on the humidity and temperature conditions. During the active growing season, in spring and summer, you might need to water more frequently, especially if the plant is outdoors in warm, sunny weather. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to prevent root rot. Generally, using about 8-16 ounces of water per plant should adequately hydrate the root zone without causing excess moisture.
Light
Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum' thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal spot is near a window with filtered light, where the plant receives plenty of light but is protected from the intense midday sun. Avoid placing it in deep shade or overly dark areas as this can result in leggy growth and reduced fragrance of the leaves.
Temperature
Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum' prefers temperatures between 55°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 30°F, but frost can damage or kill the plant. During the summer, make sure it is not exposed to temperatures above 90°F for extended periods, as extreme heat can stress the plant.
Pruning
Prune Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum' to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Pruning is best done in early spring before the new growth begins. Pinching back the tips of the stems can be done throughout the growing season to maintain shape. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves as necessary to keep the plant healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
For Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum', a well-draining soil mix is ideal, combining two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite or sand, and one part garden soil to ensure proper moisture retention and aeration. The preferred soil pH level for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.
Repotting
Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum' should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its pot. Use a container only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent overwatering issues.
Humidity & Misting
Scented Geranium 'Fragrans Variegatum' thrives in average room humidity but benefits from occasional misting to replicate its preferred moderate humidity conditions.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
- Outdoor
  Plant in partial sun with well-drained soil.
- Hardiness zone
  9-11 USDA
Life cycle
Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum'—commonly known as Variegated Mint-Scented Geranium—begins its life as a seed, which, under the right conditions of warmth and moisture, will germinate to produce small sprouts. These sprouts develop into vegetative growth which is characterized by variegated green and cream-colored leaves with a soft, fuzzy texture and a pleasant minty aroma. As the plant matures, it will develop a woody base while continuing to produce foliage and may become bushy if properly pruned. Flowering is typically modest in this cultivar, with small clusters of flowers that can be pink or lavender appearing intermittently in ideal growing conditions. After flowering, seeds may form if pollinators have facilitated fertilization, thereby allowing for the spread of new plants. The Variegated Mint-Scented Geranium is a perennial, and with appropriate care for overwintering, it can survive for several years, going through multiple cycles of growth and dormancy depending on the climate.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring-Early Summer
- The most popular method for propagating the scented geranium (Pelargonium 'Fragrans Variegatum') is through stem cuttings. To do this, a healthy stem about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long is cut just below a node using a clean, sharp knife or shears. It's best to remove the lower leaves and any flowers or buds to direct the plant's energy to root development. The cutting can then be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth if desired. The prepared cutting should be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. For optimal results, the cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer, providing them with plenty of indirect sunlight and warmth to facilitate rooting.