Medicinal properties of fragrant geranium, application and preparation. Fragrant pelargoniums: classification, list, flavors
Smells
rose, mint pink, rose-lemon,
wormwood, hot pepper,
pine, cedar or coniferous balsam,
spanish lavender,
lemon, lime, citronella
orange
coconut
a pineapple
chocolate mint
mint, menthol
apple, rose apple, mint apple
ginger
nutmeg
apricot
peach
Sweet Mimose is a sweet mimosa scent.
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Kinds
rose geranium graveolens - smell of rose or mint pink
asp-leafed Pelargonium radens - rose or lemon with mint
Pelargonium "Dr. Livingstone" - lemon rose
rose geranium capitatum - rose
Candy Dancer - smell the rose
southernwood-scented geranium abrotanifolium- sharp; sagebrush-like
oak-leaf geranium quercifolium- sharp
dichondrifolium - smell of pepper
denticulatum - smell of pine
Comphore- cedar
balsam-scented geranium panduriforme - pine balm, lemon balm or spicy
Spanish Lavender - smell of Spanish lavender
lemon-scented geranium - smell of lemon
rough-leafed Pelargonium scabrum - lemon
Pelargonium nervosum (Lime) - lime
upright coconut geranium elongatum - smell of coconut
coconut-scented geranium grossularioides - coconut or rose-mint-lemon-carnation
peppermint-scented geranium tomentosum (P. tomentosa) - mint
apple-rose-scented geranium odoratissimum - apple, rose apple, mint apple or camphor mint
P. Brilliant - smell of pineapple
P."Chocolate Mint"
P. citrosum (Citronella) - smell of Citronella
P. ‘Ginger’ - the smell of ginger
P. x fragrans (Nutmeg) - nutmeg
P. Appicot - Apricot Flavor
P. Mon "s Ninon - peach
Pelargonium abrotanifolium
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: abrotanifolium
Common name: southernwood-scented geranium fragrant geranium)
Shape: small shrub
Flowers: white, pink, lavender lavender color) or lilac
Habitat: arid, rocky areas
Leaves: grey-green, finely lobed, pinnate
Height: 3" (90cm)
Aroma: spicy; similar to wormwood (Artemisia abrotanum)
Usage: decorative (window boxes), aromatic
Pelargonium capitatum (capitate pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: capitatum
geranium)
Form: bush or shrub with a creeping growth pattern
Flowers: pink, purplish pink, lilac pink or lavender lavender with darker stripes on the upper petals
Habitat: Dunes and low sea slopes in South Africa
Leaves: dark green, velvety, with a corrugated edge, rounded to a heart-shaped base
Height: 10""-3" (25-90cm)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: rose
Use: Medicinal / Aromatherapy, Cosmetic, Craft (Medley), Aromatic 
Pelargonium citronellum
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: citronellum
Syn.: P. "Mabel Grey" (pelargonium "Mabel Grey")
geranium with lemon flavor)
Shape: evergreen shrub
Flowers: Light pink-purple with darker purple markings on the top two petals
Habitat: sandy soil along rivers in South Africa
Leaves: green, pubescent with hairs and deeply dissected, lobed
Height: 6-8" (1.8-2.4m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: lemon
'Mabel Grey' (P.citronellum) - Originally introduced as a cultivar 'Mabel Grey', this plant was later considered a Pelargonium species and was renamed. This pelargonium with large, deeply cut lobed leaves and a very strong lemon scent grows quite tall, often reaching 1.5-2 m, making it a good candidate for a standard shaped trunk.
Note: Some taxonomists (specialists in the field of classification) have come to the conclusion that this variety is a hybrid of natural origin or a mutation of the species. 
Pelargonium crispum (curly pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: crispum
Common name: lemon-scented geranium ( geranium with the smell of lemon), finger bowl geranium ( geranium for finger rinse bowl /P. crispum "Minor"/)
Form: upright or climbing shrub or semi-shrub
Flowers: white, pink or lilac with dark stripes on the upper petals
Habitat: Sandy areas with winter rainfall and protected by sandstone boulders in the southwestern Cape of South Africa
Leaves: green, pubescent with hairs, curly or curled, hard, serrated and oval-curved (kidney-shaped), 3-lobed
Height: 28" (70cm)
Aroma: lemon
Use: culinary, craft, aromatic
Pelargonium cucullatum (pelargonium clobuche)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: cucullatum
Common name: hooded-leaf Pelargonium - pelargonium of a closed leaf (hidden in a hood / Klobuk (from Turk. cap - hat) - belonging to a monk's vestment worn on the head /), tree Pelargonium (pelargonium-tree), wilde malva (mallow)
Subspecies: P. cucullatum subsp. cucullatum, P. cucullatum subsp. strigifolium, P. cucullatum subsp. tabulare
Flowers: Large, pink-purple with darker purple markings on all petals
Growing environment: P. cucullatum subsp. cucullatum grows in South Africa on the coastal plains, low mountains, foothills and near the sea.
Leaves: green, pubescent with hairs, cup-shaped or hood-shaped; may have a red border
Height: 6.5" (2m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: Leaves may be fragrant
P. "Spanish Lavender" (Pelargonium "Spanish Lavender"), a cultivar of P. cucullatum
Pelargonium denticulatum (fine-toothed pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: denticulatum
Common name: pine-scented geranium ( geranium with the smell of pine), fernleaf geranium (fern-leaved geranium)
Form: upright, branched bush
Flowers: pink-purple with dark red or purple stripes on the upper petals
Habitat: In valleys and along rivers in the southern capes of South Africa
Leaves: flat, sticky, deeply cut and fern-like
Height: 3-6.5" (0.9-2m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: pine, pine balsam (aromatic resin) or pungent
Usage: handicraft (ikebana), decorative 
Pelargonium dichondrifolium
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: dichondrifolia
Common name: pepper-scented geranium ( geranium with the smell of pepper)
Shape: evergreen grass
Flowers: white or pale pink
Habitat: rocky hills
Leaves: gray-green, smooth, with a kidney-shaped leaf blade
Height: 4-12" (10-30 cm)
Sun: full sun
Aroma: black pepper 
Pelargonium elongatum (pelargonium oblong)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: elongatum
Common name: upright coconut geranium geranium)
Shape: wooded shrub with erect or spreading stems and branches that may die back during dormant periods
Flowers: white, cream or pale yellow
Habitat: Hillsides and disturbed lands in the southwestern Cape (disturbed lands are areas of land where economic activity human vegetation is destroyed and the soil cover is destroyed)
Leaves: kidney-shaped, with a serrated edge; may have a purple or brown horseshoe or ring (circular) markings
Height: 8-12" (20-30cm)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: slightly citrus, despite the common name coconut
Usage: decorative, aromatic
Pelargonium graveolens
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: graveolens
Common name: rose geranium (pink geranium)
The form: upright bush or shrub
Flowers: white or pinkish with red markings
Growing Environment: Damp, semi-shaded areas in South Africa
Leaves: soft, pubescent with hairs, with a deeply dissected leaf blade
Height: 4" (1.2m)
Relationship to the sun: partial shade
Aroma: rose or mint pink
Usage: Cosmetic, Culinary, Medicinal/Aromatherapy, Craft, Decorative, Aromatic
Note: Many plants sold in the US as P. graveolens are actually hybrids identified as the P. "Graveolens" cultivar group. Members of this group were once classified as P. x asperum. 
Pelargonium grossularioides (Pelargonium Coconut)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: grossularioides
Common name: coconut-scented geranium ( geranium with coconut scent
Form: low creeping annual grass
Flowers: pink, beet red/purple or sometimes whitish
Habitat: Damp or shady places in South Africa
Leaves: small, dark green, round or kidney-shaped, 3- or 5-lobed
Height: 8" (20cm)
Relation to the sun: shade, but the sun is also acceptable if the plant is well irrigated
Aroma: coconut or rose-mint-lemon-cloves
Usage: Medicinal, Craft, Decorative, Aromatic 
Pelargonium odoratissimum (scented pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: odoratissimum
Common name: apple-rose-scented geranium ( geranium with the smell of apple and rose), apple geranium (apple geranium)
Form: perennial, creeping small shrub with climbing flower stems
Flowers: White (or sometimes pale pink) with red markings on the upper petals
Habitat: Forests or shaded areas
Leaves: light green; round or oval with wavy edges
Height: 8-12" (20-30cm)
Relation to the sun: partial shade, but the sun is also acceptable if the plant is well irrigated
Aroma: apple, rose apple, mint apple or camphor mint
Use: cosmetic, culinary, craft, aromatic 
Pelargonium panduriforme
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: panduriforme
Common name: balsam-scented geranium ( geranium with the smell of pine balsam), fiddle leaf geranium ( geranium with violin-shaped leaves)
Form: upright, branched bush
Flowers: large, pink, with purple streaks
Habitat: Near rivers in the lower foothills and gorges of the Baviaanskloof and Kouga mountains in South Africa
Leaves: Large, soft, hairy and violin-shaped with a dark brown center rib.
Height: 6.5" (2m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: pine balsam, lemon balm or spicy
Usage: aromatic, decorative 
Pelargonium quercifolium
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: quercifolium
Common name: oak-leaf geranium ( geranium with leaves similar to oak leaves)
Form: upright, branched bush
Flowers: Pale pink to purplish pink with markings on the upper petals
Habitat: Hot, rocky slopes with little rainfall
Leaves: sticky, green and deeply divided; reminiscent of oak leaves
Height: 6" (1.8m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: spicy
Usage: medicinal, decorative, aromatic 
Pelargonium radens
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: radens
Common Name: rasp-leafed Pelargonium
Form: upright, branched bush
Flowers: Pale pinkish purple with beet red/purple streaks on upper petals
Habitat: mountain slopes and gorges, on the banks of the rivers of the Eastern Cape of South Africa
Leaves: Rough, greyish green, triangular and deeply divided
Height: 3" (90cm)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: rose or lemon with mint
Use: medicinal, culinary, cosmetic, craft, aromatic
Pelargonium reniforme (Reniform Pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: reniforme
Form: erect or creeping subshrub with tuberous roots (root crop)
Flowers: pink to magenta (aniline red) with darker markings on upper petals
Habitat: dry, sandy areas or fields in the southern and eastern Cape of South Africa
Leaves: grey-green, velvety and kidney-shaped
Height: 15"-3" (40-90cm)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Use: medicinal
Pelargonium scabrum
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: scabrum
Common name: rough-leafed Pelargonium
Form: upright, branched bush
Flowers: small, white, pink or lilac with purple markings on the upper petals
Growing environment: sandy, dry areas
Leaves: rough, hard and pubescent with hairs, 3-lobed
Height: 6.5" (2m)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: lemon
Usage: decorative, aromatic 
Pelargonium sidoides (sedum pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: sidoides
Form: creeping low shrub with large underground tubers
Flowers: very dark maroon (maroon), nocturnal scented flowers
Habitat: Usually fields, but adaptable to different habitats
Leaves: silvery grey-green, smooth and round
Height: 8-20" (20-50cm)
Relationship to the sun: full sun
Aroma: slightly aromatic
Usage: medicinal, decorative
Note: Most plants sold in the trade as P. sidoides are in fact a cultivar of P. "Burgundy" (pelargonium "Burgundy"). 
Pelargonium tomentosum (felt or indoor pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: tomentosum
Common name: peppermint-scented geranium ( geranium mint scent)
Form: undersized, creeping, branching, evergreen subshrub
Flowers: white with purple markings
Habitat: semi-shaded, damp but sandy areas on the outskirts of forests, in gorges, near rivers
Leaves: large, velvety, grey-green, 3-5 lobed
Height: 12-20" (30-50cm)
Relationship to the sun: partial shade
Aroma: mint
Use: medicinal, culinary, craft, decorative, aromatic
Pelargonium vitifolium (Vine-leaved Pelargonium)
Genus: Pelargonium
Species name: vitifolium
Syn: P. "Grapeleaf"
Common name: vine-leafed Pelargonium vine), balm-scented Pelargonium (pelargonium with the smell of lemon balm)
Shape: upright bush
Flowers: Light pink to pale mauve pink with darker stripes on large upper petals
Habitat: Semi-shaded areas near rivers and streams in southwestern and southern Cape of Good Hope South Africa
Leaves: pubescent with hairs, rough, with 3-5 rounded lobes
Height: 20"-3" (50-90cm)
Relationship to the sun: partial shade
Aroma: rose, lemon-rose or lemon balm
Usage: decorative, craft, aromatic
Pelargonium "Brilliant" (Pineapple) Pelargonium "Brilliant" (Pineapple)
Pelargonium "Brilliant" has leathery leaves with a pineapple scent. The plant blooms in spring with spectacular bright pink flowers.
"Diamond" (center)
Pelargonium "Chocolate Mint" Pelargonium "Chocolate Mint"
Pelargonium "Chocolate mint" has large, fuzzy leaves with a brown spot in the center. Its ability to grow in a flowing cascade makes this plant an excellent candidate for hanging baskets or large flower beds.
Pelargonium citrosum (Citronella) (Citronella)
Pelargonium citrosum, or Geranium Citrosa, has an intense citronella aroma. Geranium spreads quickly and will spread in the flower garden as long as you let it. In spring, the plant is covered with charming small pink flowers.
Pelargonium grossularioides (Coconut) (Coconut)
Pelargonium grossularioides is a fun plant with a delicious coconut scent. All of its round, wavy leaves grow from the center. Also from the center grow long antennae with small processes and peduncles with small purple-red flowers. The plant flowers during spring, summer and autumn and produces seeds that look like small "parachutes". I was pleasantly surprised when I found Coconut Geranium seedlings in some of my other planted plants.
Coconut geranium, adult plant.3/01/06. Noticeable shoots starting to stretch.
Coconut geranium, mature plant
Two seedlings of Coconut Geranium appeared in a nearby pot.
Coconut geranium seedling (right) next to Nutmeg geranium.
Pelargonium "Dr. Livingstone" (Lemon-rose)
Pelargonium "Doctor Livingstone" is also known as Skeleton Leaf, or Skeleton Rose Geranium. Beautiful lacy leaves spread a strong, lemon-pink fragrance. "Doctor Livingstone" - a plant with an erect stem. Trim stem at 8-12 inches (20-30cm), pinch side shoots weekly and the plant will turn into a perfectly round ball.
In my experience, I have had to wait a long time for 'Doctor Livingstone' geraniums to bloom. I grew this geranium for three years before I saw the plant bloom. The tiny flowers resemble a pale carnation with maroon spots on the upper petals.
Pelargonium ‘Ginger’
Pelargonium "Ginger" - upright plant with wavy, serrated leaves. Geranium "Ginger" has a pleasant spicy aroma.
My experience with ginger geranium has convinced me that this plant is unpretentious and grows very easily. If you trim the plant occasionally, it will develop into a more beautiful shrub. Be sure to root your cuttings for friends!
"Ginger" (left), "Diamond" (center) and "Nutmeg" (right)
Pelargonium nervosum (Lime) (Lime)
Pelargonium nervosum has a lime scent and wavy, pointed-toothed leaves. "Lime" will develop into a large plant. This plant will produce beautiful lavender flowers in spring.
Geranium "Lime"
Pelargonium x fragrans (Nutmeg) (Nutmeg)
Pelargonium x fragrans grows into a neat, compact shrub with small greyish green leaves. Geranium has a spicy scent nutmeg. When the plant blooms, it has a delightful appearance: tiny white flowers rise above the leaves on long stems like a swarm of tiny butterflies.
"Nutmeg" geranium and on the right, "Coconut" geranium rooted on its own in this pot ("hitchhiker")
In nature, there are some plants and flowers that have complex aromas and flavors. Probably the best example of this is wine grapes. Just imagine all the words to describe your favorite wines: berries, chocolate, citrus fruits, nuts, herbs. The list is almost endless. In the world of herbs, the situation is the same with fragrant geraniums. While each plant has individual scents, perhaps not very complex ones, there are a variety of plant varieties to allow you to choose only the scents you are in the mood for. Will it be apple or coconut, peach, cinnamon, apricot or pineapple, nutmeg or perhaps rose champagne? With over 230 options, there is plenty to choose from.
Scented geraniums are actually members of the genus Pelagornium; they are not true geraniums. Pelargoniums and geraniums are members of the same botanical family, Geramiaceae, and some of their varieties share similar looking foliage, which probably explains the common designation. The names pelagornium and geranium are of Greek origin and refer to the long fruit that each plant produces. Pelargos means "stork" and the word "geranos" means "crane".
Fragrant geraniums are considered to be descended from perennial geraniums. AT open field they wither at the first frost. However, if the plants are kept indoors, they will continue to grow and possibly even bloom. Scented geraniums grow well in pots or cascade from hanging baskets, as they love having their roots fill the pot. Indoors they love warm conditions, bright direct sunlight and good drainage even preferring to be kept a little dry. Avoid frequent fertilizing, as too much nitrogen will reduce the aroma of the plant.
For geraniums to smell in the garden, I like to place them along the edge of the path. With this method, if someone walks along the path and touches the leaves, they emit a fragrance, since it is the leaves, not the flowers, that contain essential oils. This position of the plants on the sides of the path also gives me quick and easy access to the plants so I can prune them in time. Otherwise scented geraniums tend to become leggy.
Scented geraniums vary in the shape of their leaves, flower color, flowering time, and the intensity of their fragrance. I love one species, the pink scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) because of its large, lacy, snowflake-like leaves - the three deeply dissected leaf lobes have carved denticles in a rich, ivory green. The design of these leaves is used to decorate wooden fruit platters or cookie trays. One of the varieties of fragrant geranium Lady Plymouth (Lady Plymouth), despite its bizarre name, does not have a strong aroma. Unlike this variety, another one of my favorites, pink scented geranium, is less decorative. The leaves of this geranium are much smaller and less carved and have fewer shades. However, these leaves are much more fragrant. The fragrance is strikingly reminiscent of a freshly cut bouquet of roses. Another favorite of mine is the scented lime geranium (P.x nervosum). Geranium has tiny leaves with a strong scent, forming curly vines. And undoubtedly, citrus scented geranium is one of my favorites. Another benefit of citrus-scented geraniums is that they contain citronella, a well-known mosquito repellent - a good reason to plant citrus-scented geraniums around your home. patio(patio) and garden. Another cultivar I enjoy is the mint scented geranium (P. tomentosum). Her big leaves, fuzzy heart-shaped, provide a wonderful contrast to the rest of the foliage in the garden, and its fragrant peppermint oil is a delicious addition to tea.
In cooking, scented geraniums are used in making sweet syrups to be added to candies or drinks. Pink scented geranium is often used in scented jellies. Any of the leaves can be immersed in milk to extract its specific flavor (such as nutmeg, cinnamon or apricot), which is then added to custards, puddings or sauces. Fresh leaves can be added to fruit dishes. Lemon-scented geranium leaves are often used whole or crushed to add a hint of citrus to teas and cakes. Lemon or lime scented geranium leaves floating in small bowls for rinsing fingers
An interesting use of the leaves is to make flavored sugar. To do this, fill a glass flask with layers of sugar and scented geranium leaves in the scent of your choice. Seal the flask tightly and place in the sun for 2 weeks, turning the flask occasionally. Strain the leaves after time and enjoy the scented sugar as a drizzle on desserts or to flavor cookies, pies or custard.
Scented geraniums have a long history of use, more decorative than culinary. From their native South Africa, they were brought to England in the early 17th century by the botanist and "plant hunter" John Tradescant, who was gardener to King Charles I of England. The plant he brought back was P. triste, one of the few scented geraniums with fragrant flowers.
Scented geraniums became popular for perfume use, and were soon grown in the warm coastal regions of France and Spain, as well as Algeria and the coast of the Belgian Congo.
The colonists brought fragrant geraniums with them to the New World. Even Thomas Jefferson grew them in his gardens at the White House.
Growing scented geraniums became a popular pastime for people in Victorian England, where they grew them in warm greenhouses. This trend continued until 1914, when the use of fuel to heat greenhouses was banned due to the war.
Today, scented geraniums continue to be used in perfume making. Synthetic rose oil is made using scented rose geranium oil. The dried leaves are also used in sachets as dry perfumes and potpourris. In aromatherapy, rose scented geranium is used in cosmetic steam treatments, as such treatments are believed to reduce skin aging. Rose scented geranium is used as a remedy for insomnia and has an antidepressant effect.
With so many varieties of scented geraniums now available, the best way to choose from the variety is to find a well-stocked nursery and allow yourself to follow your sense of smell.
Budget preparation and budgeting automation. Sources of the local budget.
Fragrant geranium, or pelargonium, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Geraniev family, which currently has more than 250 species. They differ from each other, as a rule, in the color and size of the leaves, the color of the petals. This is one of the most common indoor and ornamental plants. In the southern regions, it is often found in landscape design parks, gardens, private summer cottages.
Pelargonium fragrant
In the twentieth century, at the peak of the popularity of geraniums, a large breeding work for the breeding of pelargonium hybrids. As a result, variegated, dwarf varieties, species with two-tone and double petals.
Pelargonium fragrant is an unpretentious semi-shrub, the bases of the shoots of which are partially woody. The hairy, lobed leaves of this plant have a pungent lemon scent. Small pink flowers are collected in umbrellas growing at the ends of the branches. While creating favorable conditions fragrant pelargonium reaches 2 m in height and looks like a real shrub. Its decorative, medicinal properties and easy care still attract the attention of growers.
Rules for home care for pelargonium
The shoots of all geraniums stretch out as they grow, become bare and lose their decorative qualities. Therefore, they must be regularly pinched and trimmed, i.e. form a crown. Removing the growth point is best done in February-March, with an increase in daylight hours.
In addition, the correct size of the pot is important, since the smaller it is, the easier it is for the root system to master it and put all its strength into flowering. During the active growing season, the plant needs mineral fertilizers with a large amount of phosphorus.
Despite the fact that pelargonium is a photophilous plant, it must be protected from direct sunlight. At the same time, with insufficient lighting, it ceases to bloom or is limited to pale, rare, small flowers. The plant is quite demanding on wintering conditions: the optimum ambient temperature during this period should be no higher than + 10 ... + 12 ° С.
Geraniums will not be damaged by a lack of water, while an excess of it will cause root rot, as will be evidenced by sluggish, drooping leaves. Therefore, the flower should be watered only when it dries. upper layer soil.
Application of the odorous properties of fragrant geranium
All geraniums are essential oil plants. The components that make up pelargoniums are widely used in soap making, cosmetic and perfumery production, as well as for dyeing leather products.
Standard scented geranium usually smells like lemon. Breeders have also bred varieties, in the aroma of which there are notes of lemon balm, wormwood, nutmeg, peach or rose. The decline in the popularity of pelargonium in indoor breeding arose due to the fact that not everyone can easily tolerate the specific smell of geraniums. A strong aroma is characterized by the presence of a large number of phytoncides in the composition of the plant, which determine the beneficial properties of room geranium. They purify the air in the room from germs, eliminate unpleasant odors. But they can also cause allergic reactions to geraniums, especially flowering ones. Therefore, when purchasing pelargonium, it is necessary to know its beneficial properties and contraindications.
Those who grow geraniums on their windowsill benefit from in kind, simply inhaling the aroma of the plant: odorous substances of pelargonium relieve fatigue, irritability, and normalize sleep.
Interestingly, fragrant geranium leaves are used to prepare various cosmetic masks. And geranium leaves with lemon-rose aroma are used in cooking for making desserts.
Medicinal properties of geranium
Fragrant geranium has bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic properties. A healthy potted plant has a calming effect on the people present in the room, acting like an antidepressant. In addition, the folk healing component of the practice of using this medicinal plant:
- a compress of leaves mashed by hands, applied to problem areas (lower back or joints), relieves pain;
- plant juice heals wounds and skin ulcers;
- fresh geranium leaf tied to the wrist helps to normalize blood pressure;
- infusions and decoctions have an anti-inflammatory effect in otitis, tonsillitis, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract;
- a pillow of dried leaves normalizes sleep, allowing you to forget about insomnia.
The healing properties of geranium are such that products based on it increase physical and mental activity, balance emotions. For medical purposes, pelargonium is used in the treatment of mental disorders, psychological trauma, relieves anxiety, helps to cope with chronic fatigue and overwork.
Independent aroma procedures with the oil of this plant give confidence, help to relax, recover after a hard day.
The well-known geranium, the beneficial properties of the oil from which are widely used in medicine and cosmetology, has regenerating qualities, fights rashes, peeling, inflammation, frostbite, eczema, and is great for sensitive skin.
Geranium oil copes well with diseases of the upper respiratory tract in the treatment of pharynx, tonsils, diseases of the middle ear. Its drop, applied to whiskey, relieves headaches, migraine attacks. A course of aromatherapy with this drug helps to normalize blood pressure. Direct intake has a decongestant effect, lowers blood sugar levels, and helps stop the growth of tumor cells.
Like any drugs based on potent plants, geranium raw materials should not be used during pregnancy, lactation, in the presence of individual intolerance, stomach ulcers, low blood pressure. They should not be taken by children.
Ordinary geranium, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have been studied and put to the service of man, can not only replace many drugs, but also alleviate pain symptoms. This plant with its presence can harmonize the home atmosphere. But before using drugs based on it, it is recommended to consult with specialists.
Video - Pelargonium or geranium - useful properties
If you are looking for indoor plant, extremely unpretentious in content, then pay attention to pelargonium, it is also fragrant geranium. This flower, originally from South Africa, has been known to lovers for over 300 years. His distinguishing feature- a strong pleasant aroma exuded by leaves and a stalk.
Pelargonium, or fragrant geranium: home care
Fragrant geranium is a fairly large bush plant with dissected leaves and medium-sized buds. In its natural environment, it grows up to 1.5 meters.
Fragrant geranium bloom
The whole flower is covered with small villi, which, at the slightest movement, release phytoncides - volatile aromatic compounds. They are able to purify the air from germs and viruses.
Fragrant geranium care:
- The plant is photophilous, easily tolerates both direct sunlight and shading. The best place for placement is the western window.
- Does not tolerate excessive soil moisture. It is necessary to water only when the earthen coma dries up and do not spray. Make sure that the water does not stagnate, it is detrimental to the leaves and stem.
- The soil mixture is made up of ordinary earth, sand and humus. Drainage required. The pot should be cramped, it is in such conditions that pelargonium actively grows.
- To form a beautiful bush, you need to regularly prune the plant, otherwise it will stretch into a tree-like vine.
Geranium does not like too loose containers, it is better to choose a smaller pot. Transplanted when aerial roots appear on the surface of the soil. Caring for fragrant geraniums is so simple that even novice amateur flower growers can handle it.
Reproduction at home fragrant geranium
One of the unique properties of pelargonium is the ease of reproduction. It does not require a certain temperature or a clearly observed level of humidity, but some rules are worth following. Geraniums are propagated in three ways - cuttings, dividing the bush and seeds.
- Cuttings are the simplest and affordable way. A shoot with 4 leaves is pinched off from the mother plant. It is placed in a container with water until the roots appear. Then they are planted in a small pot until the pelargonium is completely rooted.
- At the beginning of spring can be divided big bush for a few new ones. This is done during transplantation. Gently shake off a clod of soil, separate a few stems with a lobe of roots, transplant into a smaller pot.
- For propagation by seeds, take a special soil for flowering plants, you will still need disinfectant solution. Spread the seeds evenly on the surface of the soil, watered with a disinfectant, cover with a film. When sprouts appear, the covering material is removed. When the leaves appear, the pelargonium is transplanted into pots.
Young bushes are as undemanding to care as an adult plant. Place them on a windowsill and water sparingly.
Fragrant pelargonium, or geranium, is a plant that is unique in its properties. It is unpretentious, beautiful and helps to fight colds.
Indoor plants make the house more beautiful and cozy. Fragrant Pelargonium is a very popular and unpretentious plant that pleases with its flowering and brightens the room. A feature of the plant is the wonderful aroma that it exudes.
Pelargonium fragrant was brought to Europe from the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa). She immediately became very popular with breeders who developed new varieties from this plant.
The difference between fragrant pelargonium and other species and varieties are special glands that produce a charming aroma. The rest are odorless. The glands resemble small hairs that cover the leaves and stems. The plant may smell:
- chocolate (Chocolate Peppermint);
- lemon (pelargonium Cy's Sunburst);
- cinnamon (Ardwick Cinnamon);
- orange and other citrus fruits (Orange fizz);
- apple (Fringed apple and Fragrant);
- eucalyptus (Lady Plymouth);
- lemon/rose (Fragrant frosti);
- strawberries and strawberries (Scarborough).
In total, there are more than 150 species of fragrant pelargonium. The smell appears if you run your hand over the plant or water it.
Another feature is that the moth is afraid of this plant. As a rule, in a house where there is fragrant pelargonium, it simply does not exist. In addition, winter things are shifted with leaves of the plant in order to definitely protect them from pests.
The best varieties
Interesting varieties of fragrant pelargonium:
- Diamond. Blooms gently in spring pink. Has a pineapple scent.
- Chocolate mint. It grows like a liana, often used to decorate arbors and baskets. The leaves have interesting colors.
- Citronella. Outwardly, it looks like a bush that will grow as much as you let it. Blooms in spring with small white flowers. Smells like citronella.
- Doctor Livingstone. The leaves are like a Christmas tree. Emits a lemon-pink fragrance. grows up small size(20–30 cm), easy to propagate.
Pelargonium Diamond Pelargonium Citronella Pelargonium Dr. Livingstone Pelargonium Chocolate Mint
Features of care
Caring for fragrant pelargonium at home is simple.
Fragrant geranium loves light very much. Direct sunlight does no harm to her. It can be safely put on the windowsill on the sunny side.
She does not like heavy watering. At high humidity the roots of the plant begin to rot, which leads to the death of the flower. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
In the spring, it is necessary to cut the plant, achieving beautiful crown. Otherwise, the trunk will become like creepers and completely close the entire window. Such fragrant geranium looks unattractive.
Once a year, you can use fertilizer with nitrogen. But you need to feed the plant carefully: if you overdo it, the smell may completely disappear, but the flowers will become larger and more beautiful.
Breeding rules
Before breeding, it is necessary to properly prepare the soil. Pelargonium does not like peat substrates, therefore garden soil, sand and humus are used for planting. They are mixed in equal proportions.
The choice of pot is also important. Pelargonium cannot absorb nutrients from the ground in a large pot. The products of her vital activity accumulate here and begin to kill the plant.
Geranium propagates in three ways:
- dividing the bush. In the spring, the pelargonium is taken out of the pot and carefully divided into several parts (each should have a lobe and root). Then they are transplanted into prepared soil and watered abundantly;
- cuttings. The stalk (a small branch on which there are 2-3 leaves) is torn off from the plant. Put it in water until the roots appear. Once this happens, the cutting can be transplanted into the ground and covered with a bottle, thereby creating the desired microclimate. Watering is carried out around the bottle. As soon as a few new leaves appear on the sprout, the cover is removed. Cut off the stalk in late summer or winter;
- seeds. Seeds are laid out on prepared soil at a short distance from each other and covered with oilcloth. At the first shoots, the cover is removed. As soon as a few leaves appear on the sprout, it can be transplanted into a flowerpot.
Benefits and medicinal properties
The undoubted advantage of fragrant pelargonium is its appearance and the wonderful aroma that it gives to its owners. Geranium blooms for a long time. She is easy to care for. There are practically no drawbacks to this plant.
Geranium refers to plants that have medicinal properties and contraindications.
Fragrant geranium has medicinal properties, thanks to which medicines are made on its basis that treat infertility, reduce blood pressure, improve mood, treat insomnia, and normalize digestion.
In cosmetology, decoctions and tinctures of pelargonium are used for facial skin and hair care. But the oil of this plant has received the greatest popularity in this industry. It is used for oily, sensitive, flaky and irritated skin. Hair after its use fall out less and become softer. Simple cosmetics You can buy at the pharmacy or make your own.
Despite all its advantages, preparations and cosmetics from pelargonium have their drawbacks. They should not be used by children under 3 years of age and the elderly, pregnant and lactating women, as well as those who suffer from gastritis, ulcers or thrombophlebitis.
Video "Care for fragrant geraniums"
From this video you will learn how to properly care for fragrant geraniums at home.