Fauna
Flower

Lemon-scented Geranium

Pelargonium crispum

Also 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
Lemon-scented Geranium reference1 / 7
(c) Nicola van Berkel, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Nicola van Berkel · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (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
Classification
  1. OrderGeraniales
  2. FamilyGeraniaceae
  3. GenusPelargonium
  4. SpeciesPelargonium crispum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. 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.
Related species
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