---
title: "Lemon Geranium"
id: "1991"
type: "herb"
slug: "lemon-geranium"
published_at: "2026-03-31T02:42:56+00:00"
modified_at: "2026-04-20T04:20:32+00:00"
url: "https://flowersandherbs.com/plants/lemon-geranium/"
markdown_url: "https://flowersandherbs.com/plants/lemon-geranium.md"
excerpt: "Lemon geranium is an aromatic pelargonium grown for its fresh citrus scent and decorative foliage. The leaves are traditionally used in teas, potpourri, and household herbal blends. Native to South Africa, lemon geranium thrives in sunny pots, warm gardens, and..."
taxonomy_herb_type:
  - "Herb"
---

# Lemon Geranium Benefits & Uses (Pelargonium crispum)

Lemon geranium (Pelargonium crispum) is a tender perennial aromatic herb in the Geraniaceae family, native to South Africa. It bears small, crisped leaves with a bright lemon fragrance, and the leaves are the main part used in household and herbal preparations.

Traditionally, lemon-scented geraniums have been used in cooling teas, bath herbs, potpourri, and natural household blends. They are especially appreciated for their lively scent and ease of cultivation in containers.

[https://flowersandherbs.com/plants/lemon-geranium/](https://flowersandherbs.com/plants/lemon-geranium/)

## Botanical Overview

- **Botanical name:***Pelargonium crispum*
- **Family:** Geraniaceae
- **Plant type:** Fragrant flowering plant
- **Native region:** South Africa
- **Common names:** Lemon geranium, lemon-scented geranium

**Plants often mentioned with Lemon Geranium**

**Lemon Geranium** is often discussed alongside [Apple Geranium](/plants/apple-geranium)
, [Clary Sage](/plants/clary-sage)
, and [Rugosa Rose](/plants/rugosa-rose)
 in aromatic herbal writing. These plants are linked through fragrant leaves, soothing household preparations, and container-friendly herb gardens.

### Lemon Geranium Benefits and Traditional Uses

Lemon Geranium has traditionally been used to support:

- Fragrant herbal teas
- Potpourri and sachets
- Bath herbs and household blends
- Natural room fragrance
- Flavoring sugar and desserts

Lemon geranium is one of the best-known scented pelargoniums and has remained popular in herb gardens for generations. “Lemon geranium brightens the herb garden with a clean citrus scent that has long been favored in household use.”

#### Lemon Geranium Preparation Methods

Lemon Geranium can be prepared in several traditional ways:

**Tea**

Fresh leaves may be infused in hot water for a citrus-scented herbal drink.

**Part of the plant used:***Leaves*

**Potpourri**

The leaves dry well and may be added to fragrant potpourri and sachets.

**Part of the plant used:***Leaves*

**Infused Sugar**

Leaves may be layered with sugar to perfume desserts and drinks.

**Part of the plant used:***Leaves*

**Bath Blend**

Fresh or dried leaves may be added to bath herbs for fragrance.

**Part of the plant used:***Leaves*

##### Growing Lemon Geranium

Lemon geranium is a sun-loving aromatic herb that does especially well in containers and warm, airy positions.

- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Grows best in sharply drained soil or potting mix
- Allow moderate drying between waterings
- Suitable for USDA zones 10–11 and commonly grown in containers elsewhere
- Performs well on patios, porches, and sheltered herb gardens across the United States

Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and more fragrant foliage. In cool regions it is often overwintered indoors.

###### Safety Considerations

This herb has a long history of traditional use, however care should always be taken when using herbal plants.

However:

- Lemon geranium is generally used gently, but scented pelargoniums may irritate sensitive skin.
- Topical preparations should be patch tested first.
- Lemon geranium (Pelargonium spp.) may be toxic to pets if ingested, particularly cats and dogs, and may cause gastrointestinal upset or skin irritation.
- If a pet is exposed or showing symptoms, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) for guidance.
- Concentrated internal use is not typical.
- Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using concentrated herbal preparations.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

**Image Disclaimer:** Images are for reference only and should not be used as the sole method of identification. Always confirm identification with a qualified source.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lemon geranium used for?

Lemon geranium is mainly used for fragrant teas, potpourri, bath herbs, and household preparations. It is valued for its fresh citrus scent rather than strong medicinal action.

What part of lemon geranium is used?

The leaves are the part most commonly used. They release a bright lemon fragrance when touched or crushed.

Can lemon geranium be made into tea?

Yes. Fresh leaves may be infused in hot water for a light lemon-scented herbal drink, often blended with other mild aromatic herbs.

Can lemon geranium grow in the United States?

Yes. It is widely grown in containers and sheltered sunny gardens across the United States, especially during warm weather.

Is lemon geranium the same as citronella plant?

They are related scented pelargoniums, but lemon geranium specifically refers to a lemon-scented type such as Pelargonium crispum rather than all citronella-scented geraniums.

Are there safety concerns with lemon geranium?

Lemon geranium is generally used gently, but some people may experience skin irritation from the scented leaves. Topical use should be patch tested first.