Lemon geranium (Pelargonium crispum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lemon geranium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Lemon geranium
Pelargonium crispum, commonly known as lemon geranium, is an aromatic perennial shrub valued for its small, crinkled leaves that release a distinct citrus scent when touched. It's ideal for pots on patios and balconies or as a border plant in gardens, where its fragrance can be easily enjoyed. Its delicate white to pale pink flowers add a subtle charm to its main appeal, which is its fragrant foliage.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires direct sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth and good aroma production. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, to which it is very sensitive. It prefers well-drained and slightly acidic soils. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to underwater than to overwater.
How to save a dying Lemon geranium
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaf edges, general wilting, loss of scent. May indicate water stress or too much sun.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water thoroughly. If waterlogged, aerate. Move to semi-shade if receiving intense direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is fatal; roots quickly rot. Direct midday summer sun also burns it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient. Remove heavily damaged leaves and adjust watering/exposure.