Rose Geranium

pelargonium graveolens

Also known as: ["Geranium roseum","Fragrant Geranium"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Pelargonium Category: Flowers

Overview

A fragrant, evergreen subshrub native to South Africa, known for its rose-scented leaves and small pinkish flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Pelargonium
Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolens

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor garden bed in mild climates
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Indoor Plant Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with root rot; stunted growth due to poor drainage; mold on soil surface.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate indoor temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and fall

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove crossing or crowded stems

Pruning Plan

Shape plant; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider)

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover in frost-prone areas.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Pelargonium graveolens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Pelargonium graveolens can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake and plant stability.

Leaf spots on Pelargonium graveolens are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthetic capacity and, if severe, lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Pelargonium graveolens is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Pelargonium graveolens is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets for any unusual behavior. If large quantities are ingested, consult a veterinarian.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Pelargonium graveolens is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets for any unusual behavior. If large quantities are ingested, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Non-toxic

Pelargonium graveolens, commonly known as rose geranium, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in aromatherapy and cosmetics for its pleasant fragrance and potential skin benefits.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Handle with care to avoid skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Avoid ingestion unless under professional guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Rose Geranium safe for pets?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How do I propagate Rose Geranium?

A: It can be propagated by stem cuttings in spring or summer.

Q: What are the uses of Rose Geranium?

A: It is used in aromatherapy, skincare products, and as a culinary herb for flavoring.

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","indoor plant lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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