Fragrant, Pest-Repelling Ornamental for Gardens & Patios

Discover the aromatic beauty and practical benefits of Scented Geraniums ‘Citronella’ (Pelargonium ‘Citronella’), a fast-growing, upright ornamental prized for its deeply cut, dark green leaves and clusters of delicate lavender-pink flowers. Maturing quickly to 24–36 inches tall (and up to 48 inches in ideal conditions), this tender perennial is cherished for its sharp citrus scent, which is released whenever the foliage is brushed or crushed. Originally popularized in Europe for its refreshing fragrance and decorative appeal, citronella geraniums have become a favorite for gardeners seeking both beauty and natural pest deterrence.

The primary appeal of Scented Geraniums ‘Citronella’ is its aromatic foliage, which emits a strong lemon-citrus fragrance that helps create a pleasant outdoor environment and is believed to deter mosquitoes and other pests naturally. While not as potent as true citronella grass, the plant’s scent can contribute to a more enjoyable, bug-free patio or garden experience. Its showy, lavender-pink flowers with deep crimson markings add a splash of color from early summer through fall, making it a standout in containers, borders, and mixed beds. The leaves can also be used in potpourri, homemade sachets, and even to infuse oils or vinegars for a unique culinary twist.

Scented Geraniums ‘Citronella’ thrive in full sun to partial shade and adapt well to a variety of soil types, preferring well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Space plants 18–24 inches apart to ensure good airflow and bushy growth. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Regular pruning and pinching back growing tips will encourage fuller, more aromatic foliage and abundant flowering. In colder climates, bring plants indoors before frost to enjoy their fragrance year-round as houseplants.

Growing Success Tips:

• Plant after the last frost in warm, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade.
• Space 18–24 inches apart for healthy, bushy plants and good air circulation.
• Water when the top inch of soil dries out; avoid soggy conditions.
• Pinch back tips regularly to promote dense, aromatic foliage and more blooms.

Scented Geraniums ‘Citronella’ offer lasting value as a low-maintenance, fragrant addition to patios, borders, and containers. Their refreshing scent and beautiful flowers make them a favorite for sensory gardens and outdoor entertaining spaces.

For the fullest, most aromatic foliage, pinch back growing tips regularly and avoid over-fertilizing.

Product Features

• Botanical Name: Pelargonium ‘Citronella’
• Height: 24–36″ (up to 48″ in ideal conditions)
• Foliage: Deeply cut, dark green, lemon-citrus scented
• Flowers: Lavender-pink with deep crimson markings, summer to fall
• Growth Rate: Fast; upright, bushy habit

Growing Information

• Hardiness: Annual in most zones; perennial in zones 9–11
• Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
• Water: Average; keep soil moist but not soggy
• Spacing: 18–24″ apart

Key Benefits

• Naturally deters mosquitoes and garden pests with aromatic foliage
• Adds refreshing citrus fragrance and color to gardens and patios
• Versatile for containers, borders, and indoor/outdoor use
• Low-maintenance, fast-growing, and easy to propagate