Herb & Spice Companion

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HERB & SPICE COMPANION

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SCENTED GERANIUM

Pelargonium

Flavors vary widely: rose, lemon,

apple, cinnamon, clove, mint,

nutmeg, orange

Scented geraniums come in hundreds of varieties, many with delicious fragrances and

beautiful blooms. Depending on the species, they might be grown for their scent,

their flavor, or their attractive appear-

ance. And sometimes all three!

Leaf shape and flower colors vary

just as much as fragrance. The flowers

themselves don’t emit those lovely aro-

mas—it’s actually the leaves. The top

choices for kitchen herbs include rose

(P. graveolens), lemon (P. crispum), and

peppermint (P. tomentosum), but you’ll

also find species offering strawberry,

lime, nutmeg, apple, apricot, ginger, and

coconut.

In the Garden

Scented geraniums, which are perennials, grow healthily in containers, making it easy

to bring the plant inside in cool weather. They won’t tolerate frosts (or temps below

45°F). Choose a pot with good air circulation and drainage, and place in a sunny

window. Growing requirements differ between species, so check instructions on the

plant you have at home.

Size: Up to 3 feet tall

Container: At least 6 to 8 inches in diameter, but larger depending on variety

Light: Full sun to partial shade

HEALTH BENEFITS

Scented geranium makes soothing,

delicious teas similar in effect to

classic chamomile. The herb can

encourage healthy digestion, calm the

nerves, and help relieve headaches

(especially if stress-related). It’s also

antibacterial: a tonic made of infused

leaves can be used on irritated or

acne-plagued skin.

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