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Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush

$44.95 $59.95
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Planting & Care

Planting Guide for Pelargonium citrosum (Citronella Plant or Mosquito Plant)

Pelargonium citrosum is often called the "mosquito plant" for its lemony-scented leaves, which are thought to repel mosquitoes. While its effectiveness as a mosquito repellent may be modest, it’s still a beautiful, aromatic plant that’s easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. Here’s how to grow and care for your Pelargonium citrosum:

1. Choosing the Right Location

  • Light: Citronella plants love full sunlight. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If growing indoors, place it near a south-facing window for adequate light.
  • Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures and thrives best in 65–75°F (18–24°C). It’s not frost-tolerant, so bring it indoors if you live in a region with cold winters.

2. Planting

  • Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix that’s suitable for geraniums will work well, or mix garden soil with sand and compost.
  • Pot or Garden Bed: Citronella can be planted directly in a garden bed or in a container. Containers are ideal as they allow easy transfer indoors during colder months.

3. Watering

  • Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
  • Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

4. Fertilizing

  • Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
  • Avoid heavy fertilization, as this plant doesn’t require much and too much can lead to leggy growth.

5. Pruning and Maintenance

  • Pinch back the tips regularly to promote bushier growth.
  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy and attractive.

6. Pest Management

  • Aphids and whiteflies are common pests; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if you notice an infestation.
  • Avoid overwatering and maintain good air circulation to prevent mold or mildew.

7. Overwintering

  • If growing outdoors in areas with frost, bring the plant indoors before the first frost.
  • Reduce watering during winter months, as the plant’s growth slows down in cooler conditions.

By following these steps, you’ll have a thriving Pelargonium citrosum plant that adds fragrance and beauty to your home or garden all year round!

Natural Mosquito Repellent: Emits a pleasant lemon scent that naturally deters mosquitoes, perfect for outdoor patios.

Easy Care: Thrives with minimal maintenance, adaptable to containers or garden beds in sunny locations.

Attractive Foliage and Flowers: Features delicate pink-purple blooms and lacy green leaves, adding visual charm to gardens and pots alike.

Description

Mosquito Repellent Bush (Pelargonium Citronellum)

A delightful fragrant, Mosquito-Repelling Plant for Every Garden

Welcome the fresh, citrusy aroma of Pelargonium citrosum, also known as the “citronella plant” or “mosquito plant,” into your garden! This delightful plant is loved for its distinctive, deeply lobed leaves and invigorating scent that brings a refreshing touch to patios, porches, and gardens. While it isn’t the true source of citronella oil, Pelargonium citrosum has earned a reputation as a natural choice for outdoor areas, with its lemony fragrance helping to create a pleasant environment that mosquitoes tend to avoid. Easy to grow and beautiful to display, this plant is a perfect addition to any space needing a hint of greenery and fresh scent.

Benefits and Uses:

  1. Natural Mosquito Repellent
    The Citronella Bush emits a strong citrus fragrance that helps repel mosquitoes, making it a favorite for outdoor seating areas, patios, or around entryways.

  2. Beautiful, Aromatic Foliage
    With its serrated, lush green leaves and purple-tinged stems, the plant is both eye-catching and aromatic. Gently brushing against its foliage releases a refreshing citrus scent.

  3. Easy to Grow and Maintain
    Hardy and adaptable, Pelargonium citronellum thrives in full to partial sunlight and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some drought, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners or low-water landscapes.

  4. Seasonal Blooms
    This plant produces small, lavender-pink flowers in clusters during the warmer months, adding a soft splash of color that complements its foliage.

  5. Container-Friendly
    Ideal for pots or containers, the Citronella Bush can be easily moved indoors during colder months, allowing you to enjoy its fragrance year-round.

Fun Mosquito Plant Fact: Did you know that Pelargonium citrosum, also known as the “citronella plant,” isn’t the true source of citronella oil? This charming plant, often called the “mosquito plant,” is actually a type of scented geranium with a fresh, lemony scent that resembles citronella. While it doesn’t produce as much citronella oil as true citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus), Pelargonium citrosum is still a popular choice for patios and gardens. Its distinctive, deeply lobed leaves release a refreshing citrus fragrance that’s delightful to humans—and less appealing to mosquitoes! Perfect for adding a touch of natural charm and subtle aroma to your outdoor spaces.

The Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush thrives in Zones 4-11 patio / 9-11 outdoors

Growing Zones for the Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush

If you live in the green area above, we recommend the Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush.

 Growing Zones 4-11 patio / 9-11 outdoors
Mature Height 2-3 ft.
Mature Width 1-2 ft.
Cannot Ship To AZ, OR
Sunlight Full to Partial Sun
Botanical Name Pelargonium graveolens
The Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush thrives in Zones 4-11 patio / 9-11 outdoors
Growing Zones for the Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush
If you live in the green area above, we recommend the Mosquito Plant - Citronella Bush.
Growing Zones 4-11 patio / 9-11 outdoors
Mature Height 2-3 ft.
Mature Width 1-2 ft.
Cannot Ship To AZ, OR
Sunlight: Full to Partial Sun
Botanical Name Pelargonium graveolens
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