PELARGONIUM

Pelargonium is a refined, aromatic floral note in perfumery, derived from the leaves and stems of Pelargonium graveolens—commonly known as rose geranium. Its scent bridges floral and herbal worlds, offering a crisp, rosy aroma tinged with green, minty, and slightly citrus facets. Fresher and more aromatic than true rose, Pelargonium lends brightness, structure, and sophistication to both floral and fougère compositions. Often used as a heart note, it provides balance and contrast, harmonizing the sweetness of florals with the earthiness of woods and spices.

History & Production: Native to South Africa but now cultivated widely in Egypt, Réunion, and China, Pelargonium essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves, yielding a complex profile rich in citronellol, geraniol, and linalool—molecules that also occur in rose oil. This shared chemistry explains its rosy nuance, though Pelargonium is greener and more vibrant. In perfumery, it’s used to bring clarity and freshness to masculine, chypre, and floral accords. When blended with lavender, vetiver, patchouli, or citrus, it introduces a cool, polished greenness—a botanical brightness that evokes dew-covered leaves and timeless aromatic elegance.