Lemon Geranium (Pelargonium crispum)

Family: Geraniaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Pelargonium crispum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant lemon aroma. — The leaves have a pleasant lemon aroma.; They are crushed and used to flavour soups, fruit dishes, jellies, sorbets, ice-cream, cakes etc.; Cake pans can be lined with the leaves and the pastry will be infused with their essence.; An infusion of the leaves is used as a tea.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry lower slopes in sandy soil amongst boulders in the south-west Cape. (Zone 8)