Malvarosa Benefits, Uses, Cultivation, and Propagation

It's been almost two weeks since I got my Malvarosa (Pelargonium Graveolens).  I think it has grown by a couple of inches.  So I figured it was time to do my research on it.    It's also called Rose Pelargonium of Geranium and is best known for its fragrance.  The essential oil is harvested in commercial quantities and is used for perfume.   What I didn't realize when I bought it was that it's a flowering plant.  I saw pink flowers when I was researching it on the Internet, although I also read that it only flowers in June and July (but that's in the US.  I'm not sure when it would bloom here)  Without further ado, here are some interesting Malvarosa tidbits:


Care & Propagation 

• Well drained alkaline soil
• Full sun although partial shade is okay too although there will be less foliage
• Water when dry.  Soak.  It tolerates drought though
• Water after applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. 
• Frequent pruning to encourage dense growth
• Re-pot every 2 years
• Look for a stem with around 5-6 nodes and cut below the 6th node. Grow in a seedling mix.  Keep the soil moist and put in partial shade. Once there are roots, move to a sunny location.

Benefits

• Helps with coughs and stomach aches
• Mosquito repellent, Anti depressant & Deodorant (I have a funny feeling these three are connected)
• Food! Add the leaves to cake (like you would use Pandan), fruit punches, salads, iced tea, hot tea,  and vinegar.  Use 3-4 leaves for brewing tea. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
• Used as a massage oil
• Antiseptic
• Reduces inflammation and bleeding
• Helps with acne and hemorrhoids (good combination!)

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