Nutmeg Geranium

Nutmeg Geranium

This genus contains about 230 species of mainly evergreen perennials, succulents, subshrubs, and shrubs, which occur mostly in South Africa. Pelargoniums are commonly known as geraniums, confusing them with members of the related genus Geranium, (See, Geranium). Scented geraniums have been cultivated in Europe since the 17th century for their intensely aromatic foliage and subtle colors. They are quite diffrent in appearance and uses from the zonal, regal, and ive-leaved geraniums, which are commonly grown for summer display. Most flower all summer and intermittently through the year. In the late 20th century, many new scented geranium hybrids and cultivars were introduced. Few of these have specific culinary or medicinal uses but may be added to potpourris and enjoyed for their fragrance, which is released when the leaves are touched or brushed past. Depending on the aroma, any scented geranium can be used with discretion for flavoring. They contain very complex oils; over 2000 components have been found, including those with discernable similarities to orange, lemon, peppermint, rose, nutmeg, and eucalyptus. Most species are easily propagated and hybridized and the feasibility of producing aromas for the food and perfumery industries from plant cells grown in vitro has been examined. Rose-scented species, such as P. capitatum and cultivars 'Graveolens', 'Radula' and 'Attar of Roses', yield geranium oil, which is a fragrance in it own right and is often used as an adulterant of attar of roses. Geranium oil is produced in parts of France, Italy, India, Egypt, Algeria, and the former Soviet Union. THe finest, known as "Bourbon Oil", comes from the island of Réunion. Many species are used medicinally in South Africa, mainly for digestive, bronchial, and skin problems. Pelargonium betulinum (camphor geranium, birch-leaf geranium) and P. cucullatum are ingredients of "Umckaloabo", a German medicine popular in South Africa for treating bronchitis in children. They have decongestant effects, and are also used externally for soothing and healing wounds. A number of species, known generally as rabassam, rabas, or rooirabas, have tuberous roots that are chewed, taken in the form of infusions or decoctions (sometimes in milk), or powdered and mixed with food to control diarrhea. These include P. rapaceaum, P. reniforme, P. sidoides, P. triste, and the aptly named P. antidysentericum (dysentery pelargonium), which is often infused and taken with lemon juice for gastrointestinal complaints. The leaves of P. acetosum (sorrel leaf) have an acidic taste, and may be eaten raw in salads, or added to soups and stews. Pelargonium comes from the Greek pelargos, "stork"; it refers to the shape of the fruit, which resembles a stork's beak.

Bushy subshrub with small pine-scented, gray-green, ovate-cordate leaves, which have a silky texture and three lobes. Clusters of 4-8 white flowers, about 1cm (½in) across, marked with two red lines, appear in spring and summer. Probably a cross between P. exstipulatum and P. odoratissimum but considered to be a true species by some botanists.

Common Name:

Nutmeg Geranium

Botanical Name:

Pelargonium Fragrans Group syn. P. 'Fragrans', P. x fragrans

Genus:

Pelargonium

Family:

Geraniaceae

Location:

S Africa

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:

30-40cm (12-16in)

:Width

30-40cm (12-16in)

Variations:

Creamy Nutmeg Has a low habit and small leaves with broad cream margins.	Fragrans Variegatum syn. Snowy Nutmeg Has cream to chartreuse variegation.
Old spice Has a compact habit and crinkled leaves.

Hardiness:

Min. 2°C (36°F)

Parts Used:

Leaves

Properties:

An aromatic herb with a spicy, pine-like scent..

Medicinal Uses:

Externally as a rub for aching feet or legs (fresh leaves).

Culinary Uses:

Leaves give flavor to pâté, jellies, desserts, cakes, punches, and coffee.

Economic Uses:

Dried leaves are added to potpourris.

Bibliography: