Rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Care, watering, light and tips for Rose geranium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Rose geranium
Pelargonium graveolens, commonly known as Rose-scented Geranium or Sweet Scented Geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant renowned for the sweet and distinctive rose-like fragrance emitted by its leaves. Featuring finely lobed foliage and small pink or white flowers, it's perfect for pots on patios, garden borders, or as an indoor plant near a window where its scent can be enjoyed when touched.
Native range
Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique)
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering and fragrance. Watering should be moderate, allowing the top layer of the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging, which is its main enemy. Use a well-draining, organically rich potting mix. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can diminish the intensity of its scent.
How to save a dying Rose geranium
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft leaves, blackening, soft stems (overwatering). Dry, brittle leaves, stunted growth (underwatering/sun).
- First aid
- Check drainage. If overwatered, remove, trim rotten roots, repot in dry soil. If dry, water thoroughly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering. Its roots are sensitive to waterlogging, leading to rapid rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. If main stems are very soft, try propagating healthy cuttings to ensure survival.