Unlocking the World of Scented Geranium Varieties: A Comprehensive Guide

Do you have a soft spot for the underdog in the world of geraniums? If so, scented geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, might just steal your heart. While they may not be as showy as their zonal or garden geranium cousins, these plants make up for it with their magnificently scented foliage and flowers. And the best part? You can even eat them!

So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of scented geranium varieties to discover some hidden gems that will add beauty and fragrance to your garden.

Exploring 15 Favorite Scented Geranium Varieties

Table of Contents

Here’s a sneak peek at the top 15 scented geranium varieties that are sure to captivate your senses:

Angel’s Perfume Hybrid
Apple
Apricot
Attar of Roses
Cedar
Cinnamon
Citronella
Dr. Livingstone Hybrid
Lady Plymouth
Lime
Mrs. Taylor Hybrid
Nutmeg Hybrid
Peppermint
Prince Rupert
Strawberry Hybrid

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these enchanting varieties:

1. Angel’s Perfume Hybrid

The ‘Angel’s Perfume’ hybrid features medium-sized dark red flowers edged in pale pink and white, with a distinct lemon scent reminiscent of the citron tree. This petite variety thrives in Zone 10 and makes a lovely addition to any garden.

2. Apple

The ‘Apple’ scented geranium boasts a delightful apple scent tinged with citrus notes. With white flowers and a compact growth habit, this variety is perfect for partial shade and well-draining loamy soil in Zones 9 to 12.

3. Apricot

Experience the best of both worlds with the ‘Apricot’ variety, showcasing large vibrant blossoms with a sweet fruity scent. Perfect for Zones 10 and 11, this scented geranium is sure to brighten up your garden with its pink and magenta flowers.

4. Attar of Roses

Indulge in the heady fragrance of the ‘Attar of Roses’ cultivar, known for its rose-scented leaves and pink blossoms. Ideal for potpourri making, this variety thrives in Zones 10 and 11, reaching a height of three feet.

5. Cedar

With its subtle cedar scent and abundant pink blooms, the ‘Cedar’ scented geranium adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Hardy in Zones 10 and 11, this plant grows to a towering three feet tall and two feet wide.

6. Cinnamon

Embrace the warm aroma of cinnamon with the P. x limoneum variety featuring bright pink flowers and petite leaves. Perfect for desserts, this scented geranium thrives in Zones 10 and 11, basking in the full sun.

7. Citronella

Discover the delightful citrus fragrance of the ‘Citronella’ scented geranium, with lavender flowers and a compact growth habit. Hardy down to Zone 9, this plant is a charming addition to any garden.

8. Dr. Livingstone Hybrid

Despite its ominous name, the ‘Dr. Livingstone’ hybrid boasts sweet citrusy aromas and unique lobed leaves. Hardy in Zones 8 to 11, this scented geranium is a showstopper in any garden.

9. Lady Plymouth

Featuring large variegated leaves and pungent rose scents, the ‘Lady Plymouth’ variety is a striking choice for Zones 8 to 11. With its creamy outlined foliage, this plant thrives in partially sunny areas.

10. Lime

Transport yourself to a citrus paradise with the ‘Lime’ scented geranium, exuding a strong lime zest fragrance. Ideal for Zones 10 and 11, this compact plant is perfect for indoor container gardening.

11. Mrs. Taylor Hybrid

Experience the musky woodsy scent of the ‘Mrs. Taylor’ hybrid, adorned with brilliant red blossoms and frilly curled leaves in Zones 8 to 11. Perfect for ornamental plantings, this variety adds a pop of color to any garden.

12. Nutmeg Hybrid

Indulge in the subtle nutmeg scents of the ‘Nutmeg’ hybrid, also known as ‘Cody’ or ‘Old Spice’. With small white blooms and a compact growth habit, this variety is a delightful addition to any garden.

13. Peppermint

Unleash the intense peppermint aroma of the ‘Peppermint’ scented geranium, perfect for ground cover with its low growing habit. Ideal for culinary use, this variety adds a refreshing touch to any garden.

14. Prince Rupert

Feast your senses on the lemony scent of the ‘Prince Rupert’ variety, with variegated leaves and pale pink blossoms. Thriving in partial shade in Zones 10 and 11, this compact plant is a versatile choice for any garden.

15. Strawberry Hybrid

Indulge in the sweet fruity scent of the ‘Strawberry Hybrid’, reminiscent of childhood days with its pale pink flowers. With a trailing habit, this variety is perfect for rock gardens and wall plantings in Zones 9 to 12.

Unveiling the Diversity of Pelargoniums

The world of scented geraniums is a treasure trove of aromatic delights waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer vibrant blooms or colorful foliage, there’s a pelargonium variety to suit your preferences. Beyond their enchanting scents, these plants offer a visual feast that enhances the beauty of any garden.

If you’re eager to delve deeper into the world of scented geraniums, don’t miss our comprehensive scented geranium guide for expert growing tips and care advice.

And remember to share your favorite scented geranium variety with us in the comments below. We can’t wait to hear about your gardening adventures!

For those looking to add more floral variety to their garden, consider exploring these captivating guides next:
– How to Grow Eye-Popping Zinnia Flowers
– How to Plant and Grow the Classic Perennial Peony
– How to Plant and Grow Anemone Flowers

Embark on a journey of fragrance and color with scented geraniums, and let your garden bloom with beauty and charm.