Culture

This vigorous tender perennial grows 2 to 3 feet high and wide in one season.  Although it all but disappears in winter, it will survive temps as low as 20 degrees and will grow lushly when warm weather returns.

It takes full sun but prefers a little afternoon shade in hot dry areas.  Give it moderate to regular water.  It is happiest in Sunset Zones 8, 9, 12-24.

Recipes

I know Master Gardeners don't give recipes, but this is the sandbox!

Rose Geranium Scented Tea

Make any flavor of hot tea you like and add 2 or 3 Rose Geranium leaves to the cup during the steeping.  You can remove the leaves with the tea or leave them in for even stronger taste. Also makes a wonderful iced tea.

Rose Geranium Jelly

Combine and steep for 15-20 minutes, then strain and press juice from leaves:

• 2 Cups rose geranium leaves and flowers packed tightly
• 1-3/4 Cups boiling water (or apple Juice)

Pour scented juice into a large kettle and stir in:

• 3 Cups sugar
• 1 package Sure-Jel or other low sugar pectin

Heat to a full rolling boil and boil for 1 minute stirring constantly. Remove from heat and pour into sterilized jars. Seal and process for 10 minutes in a boiling water bath, cool and store on the shelf.  Alternately cool and store in the freezer.