Peppermint Geranium Pelargonium tomentosum (Sc)
ABOUT
Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as the peppermint-scented geranium, is distinguished by its unique and aromatic foliage. This plant features soft, velvety leaves that are distinctly heart-shaped or kidney-shaped, possessing a vibrant green color with a hint of silvery hue due to fine hairs covering the surface. These leaves are notably crinkled or slightly lobed, resembling the texture of plush velvet and delivering a pleasant peppermint aroma when brushed or crushed. The peppermint-scented geranium produces small clusters of flowers that typically emerge in the warmer months, adding to its ornamental appeal. These blossoms are less conspicuous than the showy leaves, often being white or pale lavender with purple markings. The flowers are held aloft on slender stems and provide a delicate contrast against the lush, dense foliage. The overall growth habit of the peppermint-scented geranium is sprawling and bushy, giving it a full and generous appearance in the garden or when potted as a houseplant. It's a plant that instantly captures interest not only for its visual charm but also for its delightful scent, which is frequently used for culinary, aromatic, and ornamental purposes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Peppermint-Scented Geranium, Mint-Scented Pelargonium, Mint Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium tomentosum
ToxicityTo humans
Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant, which is sometimes even used for culinary purposes in small amounts, such as flavoring sugar or tea. However, like any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur. Ingesting large quantities of any non-food plant can potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or vomiting due to the plant’s essential oils and compounds.
To pets
Peppermint-scented geranium (Pelargonium tomentosum) is generally not listed as a toxic plant to pets by major pet poison control resources. However, it's always prudent for pet owners to prevent their pets from eating large amounts of any non-food plant as it could cause mild gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, or diarrhea due to the presence of essential oils and other plant compounds that pets may not be accustomed to ingesting. If a pet shows any signs of distress after ingesting this plant, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, adds beauty to gardens with its soft, velvety foliage and attractive white flowers.
- Fragrance: The plant is known for its strong peppermint scent, which can be pleasing when planted in walkways or used in sachets and potpourris.
- Culinary Uses: The leaves of the peppermint-scented geranium can be used to flavor desserts, jellies, and teas, adding a unique minty note.
- Insect Repellent: The aromatic oils in the leaves can help deter pests, making it a natural choice for eco-friendly insect control in gardens.
- Easy to Grow: This species is known for being hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Edging Plant: Due to its compact growth habit, peppermint-scented geranium can be used effectively as border edging in gardens.
- Container Gardening: Pelargonium tomentosum is suitable for pots and containers, allowing those with limited space to enjoy its benefits.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Pelargonium tomentosum may be used to reduce inflammation in various conditions.
- Analgesic: It has been suggested to have pain-relieving properties.
- Antimicrobial: Some compounds in the plant are believed to have the ability to fight against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Antioxidant: The presence of certain flavonoids indicates potential antioxidant effects.
- Expectorant: It might help in relieving congestion in the respiratory tract.
- Anti-tussive: The plant may help to suppress coughing.
- Immune-modulating: There could be components in Pelargonium tomentosum that affect the immune system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, can be used as a natural insect repellent when its leaves are crushed and rubbed onto the skin.
- The fragrant leaves of peppermint-scented geranium can be infused in oils and used for aromatherapy or as a natural perfume.
- These leaves can also be placed in drawers and closets to impart a fresh, minty aroma and to repel moths.
- When dried, the leaves of the peppermint-scented geranium can be used to make a pleasantly aromatic potpourri.
- Fresh leaves of this plant are sometimes used to flavor jellies, desserts, and teas with a subtle minty essence.
- The peppermint-scented geranium can be planted as a companion plant to deter pests from neighboring vegetable and herb gardens.
- Culinary enthusiasts can use the edible flowers to garnish salads, desserts, and drinks, adding a touch of elegance and mild flavor.
- The plant's leaves can be made into a cooling herbal eye compress by steeping them in water and applying them onto closed eyelids.
- Some gardeners use the peppermint-scented geranium to create natural garden pathways, as the leaves release their fragrance when stepped on.
- The plant can be used in sensory gardens for its textured leaves and strong mint scent that provide a sensory experience to visitors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiPelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityPeppermint-scented geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort: Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, offers a soft and pleasant aroma reminiscent of peppermint, which is often associated with feelings of comfort and relaxation.
- Healing: The scent of peppermint-scented geranium has been thought to possess therapeutic properties, symbolizing restoration and healing.
- Friendship: In the language of flowers, geraniums can represent friendship due to their durability and pleasant fragrance, indicating enduring positive relationships.
- Hospitality: The peppermint-scented geranium is often used in gardens and homes for its welcoming fragrance, making it a symbol of hospitality.
- Peace: With its calming scent, the peppermint-scented geranium can be associated with tranquility and peace, making it an ideal plant for meditative or restful spaces.
WaterThe Peppermint Geranium prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It's generally recommended to water this plant every 7 to 10 days, but this may vary depending on the climate and indoor conditions. When watering, use lukewarm water and aim to moisten the soil evenly, allowing it to reach the roots without waterlogging. It's better to provide a thorough watering that results in excess water draining through the bottom of the pot than to water too little. As a guideline, use about 16 to 32 ounces of water for a medium-sized pot every week during the growing season, adjusting as necessary for the plant's environment and pot size.
LightThe Peppermint Geranium thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It's best to place it in a north or east-facing window where it will receive some morning sunlight but avoid the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. It can also do well under artificial grow lights if natural light isn't sufficient.
TemperatureThe Peppermint Geranium prefers moderate temperatures, thriving best between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as it is not frost-tolerant. During the hot summer months, ensure the plant is kept away from direct hot air streams to prevent leaf scorch.
PruningPrune the Peppermint Geranium to encourage full, bushy growth and to remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer to give the plant time to recover and put on new growth for the season. Prune up to one-third of the plant's size and cut just above a leaf node to promote new branching. Regularly deadheading spent flowers will also keep the plant looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPeppermint Geranium prefers well-draining soil with a mixture of potting soil, peat, and perlite or sand. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingPeppermint Geranium should be repotted every one to two years to ensure it has enough room for growth and fresh soil for nutrients.
Humidity & MistingPeppermint Geranium thrives in moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to lower humidity conditions common in most home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good airflow for Peppermint Geranium.
Outdoor
Needs partial shade, protection from harsh sun, and well-draining soil for Peppermint Geranium.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, begins its life as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, preferably in spring or early summer. Once the seedling emerges, it develops into a young plant with characteristic fuzzy, deeply lobed leaves and a strong peppermint fragrance. The vegetative stage is marked by rapid foliage growth and the plant begins to form a bushy structure. As it matures, usually within a few months under favorable conditions, the peppermint-scented geranium produces small clusters of white to pale pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, it sets seeds which can be collected when dry and used for propagation. Completing its life cycle, the geranium can live for several years as a perennial, growing and blooming annually with dieback in winter in cooler climates or continuous growth in milder regions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Pelargonium tomentosum, commonly known as peppermint-scented geranium, is most successfully propagated through stem cuttings, particularly in late spring to early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, cut a healthy stem about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long, ensuring the cutting has several leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to prevent decay and possible fungal infection when planting. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture in a pot. Water the cutting and place it in a warm place with indirect sunlight, maintaining moisture without waterlogging. Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which you can begin to gradually acclimate the young plant to normal growing conditions before eventually transplanting it to its permanent location.
