Scented Geranium
pelargonium inodorum
Also known as: ["Fragrant Geranium","Scented Leaf Geranium"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with aromatic leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers, often grown for its fragrant foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Pelargonium |
| Botanical Name: | Pelargonium inodorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- 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: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays; adjust indoor placement for light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a cactus mix base; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extremes.
Avoid drafts; use a thermometer; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut above leaf nodes; remove spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushiness and flowering.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure 1–2 inch gap around roots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or fungal issues in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow under intense heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; 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; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPelargonium inodorum is not known to be toxic to cats under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPelargonium inodorum is not known to be toxic to dogs under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPelargonium inodorum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pelargonium inodorum safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How often should I water Pelargonium inodorum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the plant to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Pelargonium inodorum flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, often inconspicuous flowers, but it is primarily grown for its fragrant leaves.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
