About This Plant
Scented Geranium “Peppermint” is a wonderfully fragrant herb grown for its strong minty‑peppermint scented foliage that fills the garden with fresh aroma whenever brushed or touched. Although botanical identification for many scented geraniums is uncertain, plants sold under common names like “Peppermint” typically belong to Pelargonium species or hybrids, often with heritage from Pelargonium tomentosum and related scented types. Pelargoniums are widely recognised as aromatic foliage plants, not true geraniums, and are valued for their scent and versatility.
This variety tends to form a broad, low‑growing perennial, working beautifully in herb gardens, as a groundcover, in containers, and shaded or semi‑shaded beds where its fragrant leaves can be enjoyed up close. It is very tolerant of partial shade. I grew this plant in Katoomba and can confirm that it copes with frost down to around -5, provided it is sheltered by a tree.
Scented geranium leaves are edible and traditionally used to add flavour and fragrance to herbal teas, desserts, and sweet treats. Their compelling minty aroma also makes them perfect for pot‑pourri, fragrant sachets, and herbal incense blends, adding natural fragrance to home and garden settings.
How to Grow Scented Geranium “Peppermint” (Pelargonium sp.)
Climate & Frost Tolerance
- Thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates
- Tolerates light frost and can cope down to approx. -5 °C in sheltered spots
- Performs well under trees and in partial shade
Size
- Height: ~50–90 cm
- Width: ~1–2 m wide when mature
- Bushy, spreading habit with aromatic foliage
Growth Habit
- Evergreen perennial herb with aromatic leaves
- Soft to velvety foliage that releases a mint scent
- Small sprays of flowers may appear in spring–summer
Soil & Drainage
- Prefers well‑drained soils and is happy in poorer soils
- Soil that is too rich or moist can reduce fragrance
- Well-drained but not overly dry is ideal
Sun or Shade
- Half shade is ideal — especially in hot climates
- Partial shade brings out the best scented foliage
- Can tolerate full morning sun
Water Requirements
- Moderate watering while establishing
- Once established, very drought‑tolerant
- Let soil dry slightly between waterings
Pruning & Maintenance
- Trim lightly to maintain shape and prevent legginess
- Remove old stems to encourage fresh growth
- Pinch blooms to focus energy on leaf fragrance
Uses of Scented Geranium “Peppermint”
Culinary & Edible Uses
- Leaves are edible and can flavour herbal teas
- Can be frozen in ice cubes to scent cold drinks
Fragrance & Household Uses
- Excellent for pot‑pourri and fragrant sachets
- Dried leaves retain aroma well for home use
- Can be included in herbal incense blends
- Lovely when planted near paths or seating areas where fragrance is enjoyed
Garden Uses
- Herb gardens and mixed borders
- Under trees or shaded herb borders where mint fragrance can be enjoyed
- Container plantings on patios or balconies
- Good choice for sensory or aromatic gardens
Botanical Notes
There are hundreds of hybrids and unnamed clones of the genus Pelargonium. Many have been circulated in herb gardens for decades without confirmed species identification. I aquired this species as Pelargonium tomentosum, but it might be a hybrid derived from Pelargonium tomentosum, though exact parentage is unknown.
Botanical Name
- Pelargonium sp. (Peppermint‑scented form)
Common Names
- Peppermint Scented Geranium
- Scented Geranium “Peppermint”
- Peppermint Pelargonium
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