Sweet Scented Geranium

Pelargonium graveolens

Native to:
South Africa, Zimbabwe

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Geraniaceae
Genus:
Pelargonium
Species:
Pelargonium graveolens
USDA Symbol:
PEGR11

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Shrub , Subshrub
Height:
120 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun,Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
pink, lavender, white
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to South Africa, prefers arid conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best at 70-75°F. Light may improve germination rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI