Flower · GBIF taxon 3826595
Lemon-scented Geranium
Pelargonium crispumAlso known as Crisped-leaf Pelargonium, Gooseberry-leaved Pelargonium, Lemon Pelargonium
Lemon-scented geraniums thrive on dry, rocky sandstone slopes throughout the southwestern Cape, where their crinkled foliage releases a sharp burst of citrus fragrance when brushed. This erect woody shrub produces small, delicate two-toned pink or pale purple flowers from late winter into midsummer. Beloved worldwide in cottage gardens and container plantings, its aromatic essential oils historically served to deter browsing insects and scent household linen.
AromaticFloweringDrought-Tolerant
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Autotrophic (photosynthesis)
Predators
- Geranium Bronze Caterpillar
- Slugs
- Browsing goats
ThreatsUrban development, agricultural clearing, and invasive alien plants
HabitatsFynbos, rocky sandstone slopes, and montane scrub
Life span5–10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderGeraniales
- FamilyGeraniaceae
- GenusPelargonium
- SpeciesPelargonium crispum
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Foliage is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested; keep potted specimens out of pet reach.
- Why it is dangerous
- Contains essential oils such as geraniol and linalool, which cause vomiting, lethargy, and dermatitis in dogs and cats.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognized by stiff upright woody stems, fan-shaped crinkled leaves, and an intense lemon fragrance.
- What to do
- Place ornamental plants out of reach of domestic pets, and consult a veterinarian immediately if ingested.
Responsible observation
- Foliage Rub: Lightly brush the crinkled leaves with fingertips to release the bright lemon aroma without breaking stems.
- Cultivation: Grow in sharply draining sandy soil under full sun to mimic its natural fynbos habitat.
Herbivore (c) Clemens M. Brandstetter, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative no rights reserved, uploaded by Peter de Lange · cc0
Close Relative (c) Diana Studer, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Diana Studer · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Dave U, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Dave U · cc-by-sa
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