Rose Geranium, Rose scented geranium
Pelargonium capitatum
Family: Geraniaceae
What it is like
A straggling shrubby herb. It is evergreen. It grows 0.1-1 m high. The leaves are velvety and crinkled with 3-5 loves. They have a rose scent. The leaves are 2-8 cm across. The flowers are pink, purple and white. They occur in clusters of 10-20. They are 2 cm across. The variety 'Graveolens' is possibly derived partly from this plant.
There are about 230 Pelargonium species. It produces an essential oil used in perfume. It is also used in medicine.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It can grow on sand, coastal sand dunes and on limestone. It will grow to a mimimum temperature of 2°C . Tasmania Herbarium.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Europe, India, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa, Spain, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The variety 'Graveolens' is possibly derived partly from this plant. It is used for teas and to flavour jellies, desserts, and drinks. The flowering parts are used for tea.
Edible parts
Leaves, flowers - tea
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Malva rose