Mabel Grey Geranium is a fragrant heirloom Pelargonium citronellum that has captivated gardeners for generations with its intensely lemon-scented foliage and delicate summer-to-fall blooms. This tender perennial reaches 18, 24 inches tall and spreads to 24 inches wide, thriving in full sun across hardiness zone 9. Its low water needs and drought tolerance make it a low-maintenance choice for those seeking a scented geranium that rewards careful attention with aromatic leaves and persistent flowering through the cooler months.
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Full Sun
Low
9-9
24in H x 24in W
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High
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The defining feature of Mabel Grey is its powerfully fragrant, finely textured foliage that releases a citronella-like lemon scent when brushed or rubbed. It blooms continuously from summer through fall, a trait uncommon in many geraniums, and its deer resistance and drought tolerance mean it can thrive with minimal fussing once established. The combination of reliable scent production, extended bloom season, and low input requirements makes this an heirloom worth seeking out.
Mabel Grey Geranium is grown primarily for its intensely fragrant foliage, which gardeners enjoy brushing or handling to release its distinctive lemon-citronella scent. The aromatic leaves are often used to add fragrance to indoor spaces or dried for scent projects. Its ornamental flowers extend its appeal beyond the foliage, offering visual interest alongside its sensory attraction.
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Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming through the season. Pinch back new growth in spring to create a bushier, more compact plant. Trim dead or yellowed foliage to maintain plant health and improve air circulation, which helps prevent fungal problems.
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