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Geraniaceae
Citronella Plant Flower
Pelargonium citrosum
Protection and comfort.
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Genus
- Pelargonium
- Native to
- Southern Africa
- Bloom season
- Spring, Summer
- Type
- perennial
- Height
- 2-3 ft
- Sunlight
- full sun to part shade
- Soil
- well-drained, loamy
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 9-11
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- Despite its name and citronella scent, this plant is actually a scented geranium and is not the true source of citronella oil.
- Real citronella oil comes from Cymbopogon grasses, not from this ornamental pelargonium.
- The lacy, deeply lobed leaves release a strong lemon-citronella fragrance when rubbed or crushed.
- Studies have shown that simply having the plant nearby does not effectively repel mosquitoes unless the leaves are crushed.
- Citronella geraniums can be trained into attractive topiaries and standards for patio displays.
Color meanings
0
protection
1
comfort
2
warmth