New in my Garden: the Rose Geranium

New in my Garden: the Rose Geranium. September 4, 2024.

There is a new scent in the garden that is unfamiliar. It has a strong, rosy, sweet scent that is almost astringent. It comes from the direction of a large, leafy plant that has a few scattered pink flowers and is known as the rose geranium. Except that it is not a rose, but a geranium that smells like one. In the big world of geraniums these special flowers belong to the genus Pelargonium. In particular, these are the scented variety with scent notes that range from rose, mint and citrus to fruits and nuts. But it is the rose geranium that caught my attention for our cottage garden.

Growing Rose Geranium

Also referred to as Attar of Rose or True Rose geranium, this herbaceous and highly scented perennial was popular for centuries as a less expensive alternative to the rose. It was used to fragrance homes and perfumes as well as flavor desserts and jellies. Additionally, it has medicinal properties used for skin conditions and other ailments that well-earned its place in the cottage herb garden. These days, however, rose geranium has been rather forgotten. I only heard about it in older books and referenced in vintage recipes. Rose geranium, what is that I wondered? I tucked it away in my mind and occasionally would search for it at local nurseries, but never saw this elusive plant until years later when we began work on the garden at Hidden Bluff.

It was this year that I began a serious online search for this rose geranium which were finally found and ordered from a nursery on the east coast this year. The long-sought for plants were put out front and I waited, unsure of how they would take to their new garden home. They adapted nicely. So nicely that they are now getting quite large and leafy. In fact, I will have to trim them before they take over. Later this Fall they will be moved to the herb garden’s new location out back to acclimate. This evergreen perennial shrub likes the sun and needs a well-draining spot with not too much water, so the new location should work just fine. Propogate using cuttings.

How to Use Rose Geranium

Traditionally, rose geranium is used to flavor desserts. I have seen it paired with lemon often. Infuse sugar with a few leaves or make a lovely simple syrup. I just did that for the first time and it was delicious! The recipe I used follows.

Have a beautiful day!