Pelargonium odoratissimum

Pelargonium odoratissimum, also known as apple geranium, is a highly fragrant botanical species that forms a low and spreading undershrub. Its soft leaves emit a surprising scent of slightly menthol apple when touched. It flowers throughout the summer season, producing small, pale-pink to white flowers grouped in small umbels. This medicinal species is the origin of several cultivars and hybrids, including Pelargonium x fragrans and its variety 'Old Spice'. This pelargonium is easy to cultivate in light, moist, fertile soils, in partial shade. Outside coastal areas, it should be protected from frost during winter. 

Pelargonium odoratissimum is a South African species common in the southern Western and Eastern Cape. In the wild, it grows in understories or in shaded areas protected by rocky outcrops or taller bushes. It is a perennial shrub belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It has a flat and wide habit, with the plant forming a short and thick main stem, branching into long herbaceous flowering stems. The overall height does not exceed 30cm (12in) with a spread of 60cm (24in). The evergreen leaves, 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in diameter, are rounded to cordate with crenate margins. They are apple green in colour, covered in fine and short hairs, making them soft to the touch. When touched, they release a delightful apple-mint fragrance. Flowering occurs from May-June to October, in the form of heads with 3 to 8 small flowers measuring 1cm (0.4in). They are less spectacular than those of classic hybrids, whether perennial or annual, but are more authentic. The 2 upper petals are larger than the 3 lower petals. The plant is fertile and produces some fruits, unlike hybrids, which are mostly sterile. This species can tolerate short frosts of around -3°C (26.6°F).

With just a touch, Pelargonium odoratissimum releases a wonderfully fruity and refreshing scent. Plant it in a pot indoors or in the ground, in a place where you can touch it. It will be wonderful along a pathway, or in a pot on a terrace or in a conservatory. One day after rainfall, we were captivated by a bed of fragrant geraniums and spent long moments immersing ourselves in a symphony of delicate fragrances. 

Its leaves are sometimes used in perfumery or aromatherapy to extract a bactericidal and antifungal essential oil. The edible leaves are used in fruit salads and desserts. They are also used in potpourri.