Pelargonium odoratissimum Seeds
Apple Scented Geranium
Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants which includes about 200 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as geraniums or storksbills. Confusingly, Geranium is the correct botanical name of a separate genus of related plants often called Cranesbills. Both genera are in the Family Geraniaceae. Gardeners sometimes refer to the members of Genus Pelargonium as "pelargoniums" in order to avoid the confusion, but the older common name "geranium" is still in regular use. Other than grown for their beauty, species of Pelargonium such as P. graveolens are important in the perfume industry and are cultivated and distilled for its scent. Although scented Pelargonium exist which have smells of citrus, mint, or various fruits, the varieties with rose scents are most commercially important. Pelargonium distillates and absolutes, commonly known as "scented geranium oil" are sometimes used to supplement or adulterate expensive rose oils. Normally found growing in shady places and under trees in forest margins in eastern and southern Cape areas. Pelargonium odoratissimum is an evergreen perennial growing to 0.2m by 0.3m. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. The scented flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and requires well-drained soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires dry or moist soil. The leaves are crushed and used to flavour salads, soups, fruit dishes, jellies, sorbets, ice-cream, cakes, etc. Cake pans can be lined with the leaves and the pastry will be infused with their essence. The leaves have an apple scent. An infusion of the leaves is used as a tea. Antiseptic; Aromatherapy; Astringent; Tonic. The whole plant is an aromatic herb with astringent, tonic and antiseptic effects. It is used internally in the treatment of debility, gastro-enteritis and haemorrhage. Externally, it is used to treat skin complaints, injuries, and neuralgia and throat infections. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is 'Balancing'. It is used in the treatment of burns, sores and shingles. An essential oil is ed from the plant. It is used in aromatherapy, perfumery and as an insect repellent. The growing plant will repel flies, especially if the leaves are touched occasionally to release their scent. The leaves are dried for use in pot-pourri and herb pillows.
