When people ask what geraniums smell like, they are almost always referring to a highly fragrant group of plants in the genus Pelargonium, not the true Geranium (cranesbill). The remarkable aromatic diversity of these plants includes scents mimicking nearly every flavor and fragrance imaginable. This spectrum of aromas, ranging from bright citrus and deep floral notes to warm spices and sweet fruits, has made them a favorite for centuries in culinary and home applications.
The Source of Geranium Scents
The powerful and varied fragrances of scented geraniums originate from specialized, tiny hair-like structures on the leaves and stems called glandular trichomes. These trichomes function as miniature chemical factories, synthesizing and storing complex volatile essential oils. The scent is held in reserve within the plant tissue, rather than being constantly released into the air like it is with a flowering plant.
The aroma is released only when the leaves are physically disturbed, such as by brushing, crushing, or heating. This mechanism likely evolved as a defense, helping the plant deter grazing animals or pests. The characteristic scent associated with “geranium” is due to three main monoterpenoid compounds found in the essential oil: geraniol, citronellol, and linalool. Geraniol and citronellol contribute to rosy and citrus notes, while linalool adds a woody or spicy undertone. The ratio of these compounds determines the final aroma of the specific plant.
Major Scent Categories of Geraniums
The incredible range of scented geraniums is typically organized into distinct categories based on their dominant aroma profile.
Rose and Floral Scents
The rose-scented varieties are the most commercially important, as their essential oil serves as a less expensive, high-quality substitute for true rose oil. These plants, such as Pelargonium graveolens and the cultivar ‘Attar of Roses,’ produce a heavy, deep, and sweet fragrance. This aroma is intensely rosy with a hint of mint or lemon, making it highly valued in the perfume and cosmetic industries.
Citrus Scents
The citrus category offers some of the brightest and most invigorating fragrances, often described as sharp and clean. Varieties like Pelargonium crispum are strongly lemon-scented, while others mimic different citrus fruits. Specific cultivars include ‘Prince of Orange,’ which carries a sweet and tangy orange note, and ‘Poquita,’ known for its distinct grapefruit aroma. These scents are due to high concentrations of compounds like citronellol and citral.
Mint Scents
Mint-scented geraniums provide a refreshing and cool contrast to the heavier floral or spicy types. The primary species is Pelargonium tomentosum, a variety with large, velvety leaves that emits a powerful peppermint aroma when touched. Other mint-scented cultivars, such as ‘Chocolate Mint,’ combine the coolness of mint with a richer, earthy undertone.
Spice and Pungent Scents
This family of scented geraniums is characterized by warm, complex, and earthy aromas reminiscent of a kitchen spice rack. The nutmeg-scented geranium (Pelargonium x fragrans) is a popular example, offering a warm, slightly fuzzy fragrance that evokes holiday spice. Other unique varieties include ‘Shottesham Pet,’ which has a general spicy scent, and the novelty cultivar ‘Cola Bottles,’ which presents a surprising ginger or cola-like note.
Fruit and Other Unique Scents
Beyond the common categories, a fascinating group of plants captures the essence of various fruits and unique odors. Pelargonium odoratissimum is known as the apple geranium, releasing a fresh, slightly tart, and clean apple scent when the leaves are bruised. Other cultivars include ‘Lady Scarborough,’ which carries the scent of ripe strawberries, and the coconut-scented variety (P. grossularioides), which offers a tropical, creamy aroma.
Using Scented Geraniums
The potent and specific aromas of scented geraniums make them highly versatile for practical use beyond garden ornamentation. Their leaves are frequently used in culinary applications to impart flavor without the plant material being consumed. A common technique is to line the bottom of a cake or jelly pan with leaves before baking or pouring, allowing the fragrance to infuse the final product.
The leaves are also excellent for creating flavorful infusions, such as simple syrups, vinegars, and specialty sugars. Rose and lemon varieties are favored for flavoring baked goods and custards. The leaves are steeped in heated milk or cream before being strained out, which extracts the volatile oils and results in a subtle yet complex flavor profile.
In the home, dried scented geranium leaves are a popular component in potpourri and sachets, providing a long-lasting, natural fragrance for drawers and linen closets. The essential oil extracted from varieties like P. graveolens is used in aromatherapy for its balancing and soothing properties. Although some citrus varieties are marketed as natural insect repellents, the intact plant is not an effective deterrent because the scent is only released when the leaves are crushed.