Scented Pelargonium Floriography

Scented leaf pelargoniums are referred to as geraniums in Language of Flower books.

Floriography is the language or symbolism of flowers which flourished in the early 19th century. It is a gift of flowers that symbolizes love and caring thoughts conveyed with specific messages. Most floral sentiments were related to feelings of love and emotions.

Many books on floral meanings were written between 1820 and 1890, and many were made small so they could be easily carried in the hand. Scented leaf pelargoniums are referred to as geraniums in Language of Flower books. Here are a few scented pelargonium meanings.

Apple Scented Leaf - presence or preference

Lemon Scented Leaf - tranquility of mind or unexpected meeting

Nutmeg Scented leaf - an expected meeting

Oak Scented Leaf - Lady, deign, to smile or true friendship

Peppermint Scented Leaf - cordial feelings

Rose Scented Leaf - preferences

No spoken word can approach the delicacy of sentiment to be inferred from the timelessly offered flower, and the softest impressions may be thus conveyed without offense, and even a profound grief alleviated, at a moment when the most untuneful voice would grate harshly on the ear, and the stricken soul can be soothed only by an act of grateful silence.

Anonymous, The Language of Flowers,1835

The books I own and frequently reference include:

Flora’s Dictionary, The Victorian Language of Herbs and Flowers, by Kathleen Gips

Language of Flowers, by Kate Greenaway

The Language of Flowers, by Margaret Pickston

For your next floral gift, consider a scented pelargonium and include a note explaining its significance.