Is Geranium Edible for Humans? A Guide to Identification and Culinary Use

December 16, 2025 •

3 min read

The plant commonly called "geranium" is often not a true Geranium at all, but rather a Pelargonium, and this botanical distinction is absolutely essential when considering its edibility. Some scented varieties of the Pelargonium genus are indeed safe for human consumption and have been used in teas, desserts, and jams for centuries.

Quick Summary

Yes, certain types of geranium are edible for humans, but extreme caution is required due to botanical mix-ups. Scented Pelargoniums are commonly used in cooking, while true hardy Geraniums have varied edibility; proper identification is paramount for safety. This guide clarifies the differences, explores culinary applications, and highlights vital precautions before consumption.

Key Points

Pelargonium vs. Geranium: Many plants called 'geranium' are actually scented Pelargoniums, which differ from true hardy Geraniums, and this distinction is crucial for edibility.
Scented Pelargoniums are Edible: The leaves and flowers of scented Pelargoniums are safe for humans in small, flavoring quantities and are used in teas, jams, and baked goods.
Edibility Varies by Species: For true hardy Geraniums (cranesbills), edibility is not universal, and varies by species; some wild types have edible flowers and leaves.
Pets are Sensitive: While humans can consume scented Pelargoniums, they are mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, so pet owners should exercise caution.
Identification is Key: Always positively identify the specific species before consuming, as mixing up varieties can be dangerous.
Use in Moderation: High dosages of essential oils in scented geraniums can be toxic, so they should be used sparingly for flavoring rather than as a bulk ingredient.
Chemical-Free is Best: Only consume leaves or flowers from plants that have been grown without the use of pesticides or harmful chemicals.

Understanding the Geranium Name Confusion

For many, the word "geranium" brings to mind the colorful annual flowers that adorn window boxes and patios. However, these are typically not true Geraniums but rather plants from the Pelargonium genus. Both are part of the Geraniaceae family, but their properties and toxicity profiles, particularly towards animals, differ significantly.

True Geraniums vs. Scented Pelargoniums

True Geraniums, or "hardy cranesbills," are generally perennials known for their symmetrical, five-petaled flowers and hardiness. Most species within this genus are non-toxic to both humans and pets. Scented Pelargoniums, on the other hand, are often treated as annuals and are known for their aromatic leaves, which come in a wide range of scents like rose, lemon, nutmeg, and mint. While edible for humans in small quantities, these varieties contain compounds that can be mildly toxic to pets.

Edible Species and Their Culinary Uses

Once you have correctly identified your plant, you can explore the diverse culinary applications of the edible varieties. The flowers and leaves are the parts most often used to add unique flavors to food and drink.

Culinary Applications of Scented Pelargoniums

Scented Pelargoniums are a versatile addition to the kitchen. The leaves and flowers are both used to impart their distinct aromas.

Teas and beverages: Leaves can be steeped in hot water to create a fragrant herbal tea, or frozen into ice cubes to add flavor to lemonade or iced tea.
Baked goods: The leaves can be used to infuse flavor into sugars for cakes and biscuits, or placed at the bottom of a cake tin before baking.
Jams and jellies: Adding leaves to fruit preserves can introduce a subtle, aromatic flavor.
Desserts: The flowers can be crystallized or used as a fresh garnish on desserts and ice cream.
Savory dishes: Some varieties, particularly lemon or ginger-scented ones, can be added to salads, soups, or to flavor grilled fish.

Culinary Uses of True Geraniums

For true Geraniums, edibility varies by species, and proper identification is critical. Some wild varieties have edible flowers and leaves, often with a tangy or lemony taste. For example, the flowers of Sticky Geranium (Geranium viscosissimum) are edible and can be added to salads. However, many species are not considered palatable, and their edibility rating is low. It is always best to consult an authoritative botanical source before consuming any wild plant, for example, the Plants for a Future database mentioned in a forum discussion.

Important Safety Precautions

Consuming any plant requires careful consideration, especially with a genus as complex as "geranium."

How to Safely Consume Geranium

Positive Identification: Never consume a plant unless you are 100% certain of its exact species. The difference between a safe edible variety and an unpalatable or mildly toxic one can be subtle.
No Pesticides: Only consume plants that have been grown organically without the use of chemical pesticides or fungicides.
Moderation is Key: Scented Pelargoniums contain concentrated essential oils, and consuming them in large quantities may have a toxic effect on the body. Start with small amounts to gauge individual tolerance.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience contact dermatitis from handling the leaves of Pelargoniums. Test a small amount against your skin before ingesting.

Comparison of Edible Geranium Types


Feature	Scented Pelargonium	Hardy Geranium (Cranesbill)
Common Appearance	Often sold as annuals, large fragrant leaves, asymmetrical flowers	Perennial, symmetrical flowers, generally non-aromatic leaves
Botanical Genus	Pelargonium	Geranium
Edibility for Humans	Leaves and flowers are edible in small, flavoring quantities	Some wild varieties are edible; edibility varies greatly by species
Safety for Pets	Mildly toxic due to geraniol and linalool	Non-toxic to pets
Culinary Uses	Flavoring for teas, jams, baked goods, garnishes	Wild varieties can have edible flowers and leaves for salads
Distinct Feature	Strong, distinct scent in leaves (rose, lemon, mint, etc.)	Hardiness, resistance to frost, medicinal properties in some varieties

Conclusion

In summary, the edibility of 'geranium' is not a simple yes-or-no answer. The scented varieties, which are botanically Pelargoniums, can be safely enjoyed in small amounts for their aromatic qualities in a range of culinary applications. Conversely, the true hardy Geranium species have varied edibility, and careful identification is always necessary before attempting to consume any part of the plant. Prioritizing accurate plant identification and consuming only certified edible varieties will ensure a safe and flavorful experience.

For more detailed information on specific plant species, consult an authoritative resource like the Utah State University Extension website on edible range plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scented Pelargoniums (often sold as annuals) are the most commonly used edible types. Varieties like rose, lemon, and mint-scented geraniums have edible leaves and flowers. Some specific species of true Geranium (hardy cranesbills) also have edible parts, but require accurate identification.

Yes, the fragrant leaves of scented Pelargoniums are edible for humans. They are typically used to infuse flavor into sugars, teas, jellies, and baked goods.

No, typically only the leaves and flowers are used culinarily. While not toxic to humans, the essential oils in scented Pelargoniums can be potent, and excessive consumption should be avoided.

Pelargoniums often have strong, aromatic leaves with a distinct scent (e.g., rose, lemon), and their flowers are asymmetrical. True Geraniums (cranesbills) are typically hardier perennials with symmetrical flowers and less fragrant leaves.

It is not advisable to eat geraniums from a garden center unless you are certain they were grown organically. Most nursery plants are treated with pesticides and chemicals not intended for human consumption.

Scented Pelargoniums contain compounds that are mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets, and can cause skin or gastrointestinal irritation. True hardy Geraniums are generally non-toxic to pets.

Edible geraniums can be used to make tea, flavor sugars, infuse jams and jellies, and garnish desserts and salads. The flavor profile depends on the specific scented variety, which can range from citrusy to minty or floral.