Kingdom Plantae Family Geraniaceae Rank Species | Order Geraniales Genus Pelargonium | |
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Similar Pelargonium tomentosum, Pelargonium crispum, Pelargonium quercifolium, Pelargonium odoratissimum, Pelargonium abrotanifolium | ||
Pelargonium × fragrans (or 'Fragrans') is a pelargonium hybrid between Pelargonium odoratissimum and Pelargonium exstipulatum. It is in the subgenus Reniforme along with Pelargonium sidoides and Pelargonium abrotanifolium.
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Etymology
Pelargonium comes from the Greek; Pelargos which means stork. Another name for pelargoniums is storksbills due the shape of their fruit. Fragrans refers to the fragrant leaves.
Description
Pelargonium × fragrans, like its parent Pelargonium odoratissimum, is a small, spreading species which only grows up to 30 cm high and 60 cm wide. It has small white flowers and its leaves are waxy, green and ovate with slightly fringed edges. It has a sweet, slightly spicy, eucalyptus like scent.
Cultivars and Hybrids
There are many cultivars and hybrids of Pelargonium × fragrans. These include:
Uses
As well as being a wonderful houseplant or outdoor perennial depending on your climate, Pelargonium × fragrans has another use. The leaves are very aromatic and can be used in something like potpourri.