Scented geranium

Pelargonium graveolens · Edible flower

40 pairings

Scented geraniums are aromatic species of Pelargonium — the South African "geraniums" of windowsills and gardens — whose leaves release intense rose, lemon, mint or spice scents when brushed or crushed. In the kitchen it is the fragrant foliage, not the small five-petalled flowers, that does the work, perfuming sugar, cakes, custards, jellies and syrups.

Picking a good onedrag

Food-grade, velvety, scent at a touchLimp and blackening, the scent gone

Shop freshThe scent is in the leaf, not the small flowers. Lay one against cake batter, or steep it in cream, syrup or sugar, then lift it out - the blade is tough.Everyday best

Where it came fromYour own plant, or a grower's, never sprayed for looks

The leafGreen still, the nap flattened where it has been handled

The leaf in the handSofter, but it still holds its shape when you tip it

Brush it with a fingerScent clear, but it wants a firmer rub to come up

What to look for, from food-grade, velvety, scent at a touch to limp and blackening, the scent gone.

Preparing