The Story
Plant Bio
A fragrant pelargonium with a bushy habit, often used in traditional gardens.
Known for its unique rose-scented leaves that are used in potpourris and cosmetics.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Low to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Pinch back leggy growth to promote bushier plants.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost, approximately 8 weeks after sowing.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide plenty of sunlight for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Allow soil to dry out between waterings 💧
- Pinch back to encourage bushier growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
- Prune dead or damaged leaves regularly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not place in low light conditions
- Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows
- Refrain from over-pruning, which can stress the plant
- Do not neglect pest monitoring
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Rose Scented Geranium questions
What zones can Rose Scented Geranium grow in?
Rose Scented Geranium is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Rose Scented Geranium deer resistant?
Yes — Rose Scented Geranium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Rose Scented Geranium bloom?
Rose Scented Geranium typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Rose Scented Geranium need full sun?
Rose Scented Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Rose Scented Geranium drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rose Scented Geranium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Pelargonium to compare
'Lord Bute' Regal Pelargonium
Pelargonium x hortorum 'Lord Bute'
Zonal Geranium 'Appleblossom'
Pelargonium x hortorum 'Appleblossom'
Azure Rush Zonal Geranium
Pelargonium x hortorum 'Azure Rush'
Midnight Ghost Geranium
Pelargonium x hortorum 'Midnight Ghost'
Breeders Mix Zonal Geranium
Pelargonium x hortorum 'Breeders Mix'
White Zonal Geranium
Pelargonium x hortorum 'White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Rose Scented Geranium with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.