Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) - How to Grow & Care Guide

Plant Snapshot

Common Name: Scented Geraniums
Latin Name: Pelargonium spp.
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 9–11 outdoors year round. In colder zones plants often die back or are grown as annuals or overwintered indoors.
Typical Height: 12–36 in (30–90 cm) depending on cultivar and growing conditions
Typical Spread: 12–36 in (30–90 cm) depending on cultivar and spacing
Bloom Period: Spring through fall in suitable climates
Soil Preferences: Fertile, well drained soil. Prefers moderate moisture and good drainage. Heavy wet soils cause root rot. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is typical for garden types.
Light Preferences: Full sun to part shade. Afternoon shade helps in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch and extend flowering.
Toxicity: Foliage contains essential oils that can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive people. Ingestion may cause stomach upset. Pet toxicity reports vary so confirm with local poison control.
Propagation: Most commonly by semi-ripe stem cuttings. Some species and cultivars can be grown from seed. Overwintering is done by potting and bringing indoors in cold climates.

Key Facts

Genus Pelargonium includes many scented leaf cultivars grown for aromatic foliage
Usually treated as tender perennials or grown as annuals in cold climates
Commonly grown in pots, containers, and garden borders
Most types are propagated easily from semi-ripe stem cuttings
Prefer well drained soil and regular but moderate watering
Flowering occurs from spring through fall where climate permits
Full sun to part shade suits most scented geranium types
Foliage oils can cause mild skin irritation in some people

Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are tender perennials prized for aromatic foliage and season long flowers. They suit containers and garden borders but are frost tender so in colder areas they are treated as annuals or moved indoors for the winter.

Identification and habits

Leaf shape and scent vary widely among cultivars while flower color and form add seasonal interest. Typical garden types reach about 12 to 36 inches tall with a similar spread depending on cultivar and growing conditions. Flowering runs from spring through fall where the climate allows continuous blooms.

Where to grow and best uses

Use scented geraniums in pots and window boxes to enjoy their aroma near seating areas and doorways. They also work as edging or mixed border plants where bright light is available. In hot climates provide afternoon shade to protect leaves and extend flowering.

Planting time and spacing

Plant outdoors after the last hard frost has passed in your area. Space plants according to expected mature spread which ranges from about 12 to 36 inches depending on the type. In heavy or poorly drained soil use raised beds or containers to protect roots.

Soil and watering

Choose fertile, well drained soil and avoid waterlogged sites which cause root rot. Water regularly but moderately allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between soakings. Good drainage can be improved with gritty material or organic amendments if soil is heavy.

After flowering care and overwintering

Trim back leggy stems to keep plants compact and to encourage new growth after heavy flowering. In USDA zones 9 to 11 plants can remain outdoors year round. In colder zones pot plants and bring them indoors to overwinter where frost would kill the foliage.

Containers and propagation

Scented geraniums are ideal for containers and hanging baskets which limit spread and make overwintering simple. Most types propagate reliably from semi ripe stem cuttings. Some species can be grown from seed but many named cultivars do not come true from seed.

Controlling spread and common concerns

Growth habit varies by cultivar from compact to mounded and many garden types form clumps about 1 to 3 feet across. Control size with regular pruning or keep plants in containers. Monitor drainage and avoid prolonged wet soil to reduce risk of root problems.

Frequently asked questions

How fast does Scented Geraniums grow?: Growth rate varies with cultivar and conditions. Many garden types show noticeable growth during the active season and commonly reach 12 to 36 inches in height or spread depending on variety.
Are Scented Geraniums hardy outdoors?: They are generally frost tender and are grown outdoors year round in USDA zones 9 through 11. In colder areas growers treat them as annuals or bring potted plants indoors for winter.
Are Scented Geraniums safe for pets?: Reports vary by species and cultivar. For species level guidance consult the ASPCA or local poison control before placing plants where pets have access.
How do I overwinter Scented Geraniums?: Pot plants before the first frost and move them indoors to a bright spot. Reduce watering and cut back long stems to conserve space and encourage healthy spring growth.
Can Scented Geraniums be grown from seed?: Some species grow from seed but many garden cultivars are propagated by cuttings for reliable results and to preserve cultivar traits.