Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants which includes about 200 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as scented geraniums. They have a long history of use, although more for decorative purposes than for culinary use. From their native South Africa they were brought to England in the early 1600′s by John Tradescent, botanist for Charles the First of England. The plant he brought back was Pelargonium triste, one of the few scented geraniums with fragrant blossoms.

Scented geraniums were soon cultivated in the warm coastal regions of France and Spain, as well as Algeria and the coast of what was the Belgian Congo. The colonists brought scented geraniums with them to the new world. Even Thomas Jefferson grew them in his gardens at the White House.

Growing scented geraniums became a popular pastime of the people in Victorian England, where they would raise them in heated greenhouses. This trend continued until 1914 when fuel to heat the green houses was banned due to the war.

Today scented geraniums continue to be used in the making of perfumes. Synthetic rose oil is made using rose scented geraniums. The dried leaves are also used in sachets and potpourri. In aromatherapy rose scented geranium is used for facial steams as it is reputed to have anti-aging effects on the skin. It is also reputed to ease insomnia and have an antidepressant effect.

An aromatic, rose-scented herb, the whole plant has relaxant, anti-depressant and antiseptic effects, reduces inflammation and controls bleeding. All parts of the plant are astringent. It is used internally for nausea, tonsillitis and poor circulation. Externally, it is used to treat acne, haemorrhoids, eczema, bruises, ringworm and lice. The leaves can be used fresh at any time of the year. 

There is a great diversity among the varieties themselves, in the shape of their leaves, the color of their blossoms, blooming time, and intensity of their fragrances. One of the rose scented geraniums has a large, lacy snowflake leaf pattern. Another favorite is lime scented geranium. It has very tiny leaves, shaped like curly maple. Their fragrance is sharp and undeniably citrus. An added benefit of the citrus scented geraniums is that they contain citronella, a known mosquito repellent.

Scented geraniums have been developed in an enormous number of varieties including Coconut, Apple Cider, Lemon Meringue, Apricot, Strawberry and Chocolate Mint.