About Pelargonium radens H.E.Moore
Pelargonium radens is an evergreen perennial plant that reaches up to 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches) in height. It produces deeply cut triangular scented gray-green leaves. In summer, it bears clusters of small pink-purple flowers, which are followed by small curly-tailed brownish seeds. This species is native to the southern and eastern Cape region of South Africa, where it grows in ravines or gorges near streams, or among shrubs on mountainsides. Traditionally, its edible leaves have been used as a flavoring for jellies and in herbal teas. An essential oil extracted from its leaves and flowers is used commercially as a food flavoring and additive, sold as geranium oil or rose geranium oil. This essential oil is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe by the US FDA when used in small quantities in foods. Pelargonium radens is grown as a house plant, and is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in regions including North America, within USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11. It can be propagated by both seeds and stem cuttings.
