Usually available: April to November

Life cycle: Perennial
Height: 35 - 40cm
Position: Sun / part shade
Soil preference: Well drained

This is how we pack and send your Herb Plants to all states except TAS & WA

You will receive
- 1 Scented Geranium Snowflake Herb Plant in a 50 X 75mm tube - General growing instructions

All of our Herb Plants are grown organically with certified organic potting mixes and fertilizers

Botanical Name: Pelargonium 'Snowflake'

Scented Geranium ‘Snowflake’ is a small but fast growing variety reaching 35-40 cm high with a similar spread. The leaves have a white and cream variegation that can sometimes be ‘hit and miss.’ It has a tendency to revert to green leaves, so pinch out any that appear to keep the appearance of ‘snowflakes’. The soft mid-green leaves are shallow lobed and slightly ruffled. This plant can have a trailing habit, which makes it good for hanging baskets. The flowers are pink and the whole plant has a pleasant lemon rose or rose scent. There are many varieties with the name ‘Snowflake’ as part of their cultivar identity and there appears to be some confusion about the parent identity of this plant, the singular ‘Snowflake’. It is likely that the parent is the Rose Scented Geranium, Pelargonium graveolens, which is described in more detail below. However, some gardeners suggest that this is a hybrid of another species commonly called ‘Rose Scented Geranium’, Pelargonium capitatum or the Round Leafed Rose variety.

Either of the above parent species will grow in a wide range of conditions ranging from full sun to part shade. They will also be considered generally tolerant of dry periods once established and tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.

Pelargonium General Notes

Pelargoniums are evergreen perennials, sharing many common characteristics with the Geranium species. They range in height from 30- 100cm and may be categorized based on varying leaf shapes, such as crinkled, oak or fern leaf shapes. The leaf colour may vary from deep to light green, with flowers generally held in loose clusters. Most prefer to grow in full sun and they are also drought and heat tolerant. However, some varieties do require some shade and moist conditions where possible. Many grow near streams in their native habitats, but generally ‘less is more’ is a good guideline for watering these plants. They do not like to be damp at all.

This group of plants were initially catalogued by Linnaeus into the same Genus as Geraniums, but were separated into separate genera in 1789. Pelargoniums were taken to England in 1631, but it is likely they were transported to Holland in the earlier 1600’s. Since early times various varieties have been developed and many are now cultivated commercially for the essential oils used in perfumery and aromatherapy.

This group of plants were initially catalogued by Linnaeus into the same Genus as Geraniums, but were separated into separate genera in 1789. Pelargoniums were taken to England in 1631, but it is likely they were transported to Holland in the earlier 1600’s. Since early times various varieties have been developed and many are now cultivated commercially for the essential oils used in perfumery and aromatherapy.

The Geranium plant family is an important food source for certain Lepidoptera species in their native regions. For more information on our other Scented Geranium listings.

Growing Conditions

Most pelargoniums enjoy full sun, but Rose Scented Geranium is one variety that requires more shelter. Pelargonium graveolens grows very well in semi-shaded positions and is good as a filler plant in larger gardens. It requires a moist, but not damp environment, with well- drained soil.

This plant also grows well in containers and hanging baskets. In cold regions it may even be taken indoors, but may be better treated as an annual if this is not possible. Although, not very tolerant of frost some plants may die down and return when the weather warms in spring. It may be propagated by tip or stem cuttings taken in autumn or spring. Seed may be sown at almost any time of the year, especially in warmer climates.

Culinary Uses

Pelargoniums are usually suitable for culinary use, particularly the leaves and flowers. They may be used for herbal teas and to sweeten and scent desserts such as cakes and jelly. The most commonly used are those with rose, lemon and peppermint scents. Leaves may be cut and placed in ice cube trays for later use in iced tea or other suitable cold drinks.

A tea infusion may be made using 3 teaspoons of freshly chopped leaves, or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves, and 1 cup (250mls) of boiling water. Let the leaves steep, strain and then drink as needed. There are several varieties suitable for a tea infusion, but it may be a matter of taste.

Medicinal Uses

Many South African varieties of Pelargonium have a history of traditional medicine use by local tribes. General traditional use has included treatment for digestive and respiratory ailments, wounds, burns, ulcers and abscesses, cold sores and sore throats. The active chemicals are slightly astringent so they are good for skin care, oily skin and cleansing the pores. Overall the pelargonium species are seen as having value for creating a relaxing and uplifting feeling, while calming nerves, anxiety and aiding depression. There is also value for use in premenstrual tension and for those seeking an essential oil for creating a soothing and balancing effect on the body. Different varieties may have different effects.

The strongly scented Rose Scented Geranium, Pelargonium graveolens, is one of the best plants in this genus for traditional medicine use. Several active chemicals, in this species, have been determined to be beneficial for having antibiotic effects and nerve pain relief. Research has indicated it is helpful for nerve pain associated with shingles. It is thought to also have a soothing effect on the skin when used to bath rashes, skin irritations or simply used in bath water.

Other Uses

Many of the scented pelargonium species and varieties are cultivated especially for their use in perfumery, aromatherapy and massage therapy. Rose Scented Geranium is often used as a substitute for the more expensive Rose of Attar. The oil is extracted from the leaf and stems of the plant.

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.