Pelargonium citronellum
Pelargonium citronellum

Common names: citronella pelargonium, lemon-scented pelargonium, lemonbalm storksbill (English); malva (Afrikaans). 
Botanical name: Pelargonium citronellum

The citronella pelargonium, Pelargonium citronellum, is a lemon-scented shrub that belongs to the geranium family. It has attractive pink-purple flowers and palm-shaped leaves that release a refreshing fragrance when touched. The leaves can be used as a culinary herb, a natural insect repellent, or a potpourri ingredient. This species is native to a small area near Ladismith in the Western Cape, where it grows near streams in well-drained, sandy soil. It is easy to grow from seeds or cuttings and thrives in full sun or light shade. It is a rare but not threatened plant that can add beauty and aroma to any garden.

Uses & Benefits: aromatic, culinary herb, flavouring, insect repellent, medicine, pot plant, potpourri, small garden

All Plant Profiles

Nature & Cultivation

Family: Geraniaceae
Type: shrub
Vegetation type:  
Flower colour: pink
Flowering season: 
Plant-animal interactions: bees
Red list status:

Light-level: afternoon sun, full sun, morning sun
Soil type: 
Soil pH: 
Propagation: cuttings, seed

Use as Medicine

Safety: no safety concerns

Herbal traditions: Cape Herbal Medicine
Plant parts used: flowers, leaves

First-aid use:  
Medical use:  
Veterinary use:  

Plant qualities: 
Plant actions: 
Phytochemical constituents: 

Plant preparations: cordial, essential oil, fresh, infusion - aqueous

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