GERANIUM (Pelargonium spp.)

Description

Geranium macrorrhizum L. is the only true geranium. A large number of hybrids have been developed from several Pelargonium species, from which the essential oil is obtained. Pelargonium is a perennial plant when growing in subtropical climates; the plant dies in winter and must be planted annually in temperate climates.
The largest geranium cultivations are on Reunion; more than 50% of the world production of geranium oil comes from this island. The cultivated variety is P. graveolens. Other important geranium cultivations occur in Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Congo, Tanzania, Kenya) and in Europe (Russia, Bulgaria, France, Italy, Spain); South Africa is the only area where geraniums grow wild. The various essential oils are distinguished by the geographical name of the country of origin - Reunion geranium, Moroccan geranium, African geranium, etc. The parts used are the leaves and stems. Geranium has a strong, rose-like odor with a minty undertone and a bitter, rather disagreeable flavor.
The following essential oils distilled from Pelargonium species represent the commercially most important oils; others usually are meant for local consumption.