Scented geraniums are Pelargonium plants grown mainly for fragrant leaves rather than flowers. University of Illinois Extension says there are literally hundreds of types, with scents including apple, mint, lemon, coconut and rose, and that the plants prefer a full sun location, a container with ample drainage holes and soil kept uniformly moist but allowed to dry between waterings. Indoors, give the plant the brightest spot you have. Pet owners should know that the ASPCA lists Pelargonium species as toxic to dogs and cats.
What scented geraniums are
The extension page identifies scented geranium as Pelargonium sp. and says plants range from two to three feet tall to nearly cascading, with foliage that varies in size, shape, color and texture. Flowers are described as secondary and not very attractive. For other plants grown for scented foliage, see Plants With Fragrant Leaves.
Light, soil and pot
The page says to use a full sun location, a prepared soil mix and containers with ample drainage holes. It gives no number of sun hours and no pot size. Indoors the practical reading is the sunniest window available, and a pot that can drain freely.
Watering and feeding
Keep soil uniformly moist and let it dry between waterings, according to the extension page. During the growing season it says to apply liquid fertilizer about every two weeks, and to reduce fertilizer when the plant is indoors. It does not give a watering interval in days or a fertilizer strength.
Bringing the plant in for winter
The page says scented geraniums will not overwinter outdoors in cold climates. Before frost, move the plant to a bright location, water as needed, and cut a large plant back before bringing it indoors. It gives no temperature ranges, so this page does not invent any.
Pruning and cuttings
Occasional pruning or pinching maintains a good plant habit, and plants are most often grown from tip cuttings, which root easily, according to the extension page.
| Topic | What University of Illinois Extension says |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun location |
| Soil and pot | Prepared soil mix; ample drainage holes |
| Water | Uniformly moist, dry between waterings |
| Fertilizer | Liquid fertilizer about every two weeks in growing season; reduce indoors |
| Winter | Move to a bright location before frost; cut back large plants |
| Propagation | Tip cuttings root easily |
| Pests and temperature | Not covered |
Using the leaves, and the pet caution
The extension page says leaves can be harvested as needed and used fresh or dried. It lists flavoring desserts, beverages, vinegars and jellies, and says the more pungent, spicy types are used for potpourri, sachets and perfumes. It lists no cautions.
The ASPCA lists geranium, Pelargonium species, as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. It names geraniol and linalool as the toxic principles and lists vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis as signs. Reading the two together is an inference, because the extension page and the ASPCA entry use slightly different names, but the extension page identifies scented geranium as a Pelargonium. With pets in the home, keep cuttings and dried leaves out of reach.
Frequently asked questions
Do scented geraniums need full sun?
The University of Illinois Extension page says they prefer a full sun location. No number of hours is given.
How often should I fertilize?
About every two weeks during the growing season, with less fertilizer when the plant is indoors.
Can I bring my outdoor scented geranium inside for winter?
The extension page says to move it to a bright location before frost, water as needed, and cut a large plant back first.
Are scented geraniums safe for cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists Pelargonium species as toxic to dogs and cats. See Is Jasmine Toxic to Cats and Dogs? for how to check other scented plants.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance and cannot diagnose a plant from a description; see the Disclaimer. For other scent topics, browse Bloom & Fragrance.
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