| Pelargonium radens | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Pelargonium |
| Species: | P. radens |
| Binomial name | |
| Pelargonium radens H.E.Moore |
|
Pelargonium radens is a species of Pelargonium. It is an evergreen perennial plant, growing to about three feet high. It has deeply-cut triangular scented gray-green leaves and in the summer bears clusters of small pink-purple flowers, followed by small curly-tailed brownish seeds. Traditionally the edible leaves were used as a flavoring in jellies and in herbal teas. An essential oil extracted from the leaves and flowers is used commercially as a food flavoring and additive (geranium oil, rose geranium oil). This essential oil is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe by the US FDA when small quantities are added to foods. A native of South Africa. P. radens is cultivated as an ornamental in North America, in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. Propagation is by seeds and stem cuttings.
Synonyms: Crow's Feet, Rose-scented Pelargonium, Skeleton Leaf Rose Geranium, Skeleton Rose Geranium. [1]