Pelargonium tomentosum (Mint-scented geranium, Peppermint geranium)

Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais

Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

Botanical Name: Pelargonium tomentosum pel-ar-GO-nee-um toe-men-TOE-sum

Common Name: Mint-scented geranium, Peppermint geranium Genus: Pelargonium

The velvety leaves of this choice species are pale green with long, silky hairs. The angora-like feel of the foliage is matched by its heavenly aroma of fresh mint. It bears clusters of dainty white blossoms in spring, but remains an exceptional foliage plant throughout the year.
Noteworthy characteristics:
Care: Deadhead spent flowers consistently. Outdoors, grow in neutral to alkaline, well-drained soil and preferably full sun. In hot climates, provide mid-day shade; in cold climates, overwinter indoors and trim back by one-third and repot when grown resumes. Indoors, provide with light soil mix, good light and ventilation, and mid-day shade. Fertilize every two weeks during growth and water sparingly in winter.
Propagation: Root softwood cuttings in spring, late summer or early fall; sow seed from late winter to early spring at 70°F.
Problems: Spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, caterpillars, mildew, gray mold, black leg, flower break virus, Xanthomonas blight, edema.

Overview
User Reviews
Photos

Height	1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread	1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit	Clumps
Growth Pace	Fast Grower
Light	Part Shade Only
Moisture	Dry to Medium
Maintenance	Low
Characteristics	Fragrant Foliage; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time	Spring
Foliage Color	Evergreen
Flower Color	White Flower
Uses	Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers, Indoor Plant, Suitable as Annual
Style	Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest	Winter Interest, Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type	Perennials

Be the first to rate this plant

Click on a thumbnail to see a full sized image

Plants you might also like

Pelargonium sidoides
(Kalwerbossie geranium , Silverleaf geranium) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This exemplary species has felted, gray, crinkled leaves. Over a long period, it exhibits sprays of butterfly-shaped, rich wine-red flowers, which contrast dramatically with the foliage. Its small stature makes it a perfect candidate for a container or a walkway edge. It has been used medicinally for the treatment of various infections, including bronchitis. It is a native of Africa.

Euphorbia 'Diamond Frost'
Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This hybrid produces masses of pure white bracts above finely textured, apple green foliage. It adds stunning texture and color to a border in partial shade.

Ruellia elegans
(Thai ruellia, Brazilian petunia) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This species has open-faced coral-red blossoms from late spring until fall.

Euphorbia rigida
Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This species is similar to E. myrsinites, but its habit is first erect before spreading, and its steely blue leaves are more narrow and pointed. It also bears terminal yellow bracts from early spring to summer.