True geranium or Pelargonium?
When someone mentions “geranium essential oil,” they are usually referring to oil from Pelargonium asperum or Pelargonium graveolens rather than the hardy garden plant commonly known as geranium. Despite sharing a botanical family and similar names, Pelargonium and true Geranium (such as Geranium macrorrhizum) are quite different plants. Their essential oils also differ in scent, composition, and therapeutic use.
Both Pelargonium and Geranium belong to the Geraniaceae family, but they are classified into separate genera. Pelargoniums are native to South Africa and include the many scented-leaf varieties often grown in pots and containers. True geraniums are hardy perennials, typically found in temperate regions across Europe and beyond. They are often used as ground cover or in cottage-style planting schemes.
Pelargonium essential oil
When people refer to geranium essential oil, they nearly always mean the oil distilled from Pelargonium graveolens. This essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy and perfumery due to its rosy, floral scent and versatility.
- The aroma is sweet, floral, and sometimes slightly minty or citrus-like, depending on the variety.
- Its main chemical components include citronellol, geraniol, and linalool.
- Pelargonium oil is valued for its balancing effects on the emotions and hormones, making it popular in blends for mood swings, menstrual discomfort, and menopausal symptoms.
- It is often used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and sebum-regulating properties.
- The oil is also appreciated as a more affordable alternative to rose oil.
Different growing regions, such as Réunion (producing the Bourbon type) or Egypt, produce slightly different scent profiles and chemical compositions, which gives aromatherapists some variety to work with.
True geranium essential oil
True geraniums, such as Geranium macrorrhizum, are not commonly used in essential oil production. However, a few species do yield a small amount of essential oil when distilled, and these have their own unique qualities.
- The scent is earthy, herbaceous, and slightly spicy—very different from the floral fragrance of Pelargonium oil.
- Its composition typically includes germacrone, beta-caryophyllene, and other sesquiterpenes.
- Though less researched, true geranium oil has traditional applications in wound care and may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
- Some herbal practitioners use it in energetic or spiritual cleansing due to its grounding aroma.
True geranium essential oil is not widely available and is usually produced in small batches for niche use. It may appeal to those who are interested in the more resinous, earthy side of herbal aromatics or who are seeking lesser-known alternatives in natural perfumery or ritual practice.
While both Pelargonium and Geranium belong to the same botanical family, they are distinct in appearance, aroma, and essential oil composition. Pelargonium oil is the familiar floral-scented essential oil used in aromatherapy and skincare, while true geranium oil is much rarer, with a more herbaceous and grounding profile.
Understanding the difference between these plants helps ensure that you’re selecting the right oil for your needs—whether for emotional balance, skincare, or something more energetically rooted.
Click to read our knowledge base article and find out more about Pelargonium geranium oils and their use in aromatherapy.
