Pelargonium graveolens 'Citrosa' - Citrosa Scented Geranium

Protect your summer evenings with Pelargonium graveolens 'Citrosa', often called the "Mosquito Plant"! This Citronella Geranium is famous for its delicately cut foliage that releases a powerful lemon and citronella scent when brushed or crushed. An attractive and functional addition to your balcony, patio, or garden, 'Citrosa' is the natural solution to deter mosquitoes while decorating your outdoor space.

Characteristics

• Foliage : The foliage is green, very deeply cut and toothed, with a delicate, lacy texture. Its main characteristic is the strong citronella scent it releases when touched or crushed. The foliage is evergreen in warm climates, but deciduous with frost.
• Bloom : Produces small, inconspicuous flowers, generally pale pinkish-lavender in colour, appearing in summer. Flowering is often insignificant and not the plant's main attraction, as it is grown for its foliage.
• Light : Prefers full sun for optimal fragrance development and growth. It tolerates partial shade (4 to 6 hours of direct sun), but its potential effectiveness and vigour may be reduced.
• Habit : Its habit is bushy and upright, forming a compact plant that can nonetheless spread.
• Growth : Its growth is moderate to fast. It generally reaches a height and spread of about 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet), depending on growing conditions and if it is pinched.
• Humidity : Requires average water needs. The soil should dry slightly between waterings.
• Soil : Thrives in light, well-drained soil, of average to good fertility. A quality potting mix for containers is ideal.
• Temperature : This pelargonium is not frost-resistant. It thrives in warm climates. To preserve it in regions with cold winters, it must be grown as a seasonal outdoor plant or brought indoors for winter in a cool and bright location (ideal temperature between 5°C and 15°C).
• Watering : Moderate. Let the top of the soil dry between waterings. Excess water is detrimental.

Uses

• Types of Use : Ideal for pots on patios, balconies, and terraces, or planted at the edge of outdoor living areas. Its foliage can be crushed and rubbed on the skin (with caution for sensitive skin) to release its fragrance. It can also be integrated into herb gardens or mass plantings as an annual plant.
• Decorative Advantages : In addition to its presumed repellent properties, its green textured and cut foliage is visually appealing. It adds a touch of natural elegance and a pleasant fragrance to the outdoor space.

Care

• Fertilization : Fertilize lightly once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer for flowering plants or herbs, diluted to half strength.
• Pruning : Occasional pruning is recommended to maintain a bushy and compact habit. Pinch the tips of stems to encourage better branching.
• Planting :
  • Distance : If planted in the ground, space plants about 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet) apart to allow for their full development.
  • Depth : Plant the root ball at the same level as the original soil in the pot or in the ground.
  • Period : Plant outdoors after all risk of spring frost has passed, when nighttime temperatures remain above 10°C (50°F).