Common Name: |
Apple Geranium |
Botanical Name: |
Pelargonium odoratissimum |
Genus: |
Pelargonium |
Family: |
Geraniaceae |
Location: |
South Africa (KwaZulu/Natal, N Transvaal, E and W Cape). |
Cultivation: |
Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in sun. Pelargonium crispum, P. odoratissimum, and P. tomentosum tolerate partial shade. Plants may be cut back in early spring. If grown outdoors in cool climates, they may also be cut back before bringing in for the winter. Leafhoppers, aphids, spider mites, and whitefly may attack plants under cover. |
Propagation: |
By softwood cuttings in spring, late summer, or early autumn. |
Harvest: |
Plants are cut in late summer and distilled for oil. Leaves are picked as required. |
Height: |
20-30cm (8-12in) |
:Width |
45-60cm (18-24in) |
Hardiness: |
Min. 2°C (36°F) |
Parts Used: |
Whole Plants, Leaves, Oil |
Properties: |
An aromatic herb with a fruity scent. It has astringent, tonic, and antiseptic effects, controls bleeding, promotes healing, and repels insects. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for debility, gastroenteritis, and hemorrhage. Externally for skin complaints, injuries, neuralgia, and throat infections. Oil used in aromatherapy for burns, sores, and shingles. |
Culinary Uses: |
Leaves are used to flavor desserts, syrups, sauces, fruit drinks, and punches. |
Economic Uses: |
Leaves are dried for potpourris. |
Bibliography: |
Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg.304-306
|