Origin and history
Rose geranium, or Pelargonium graveolens , is a plant native to South Africa, now cultivated in many warm regions of the world, notably in Madagascar, Egypt, and on Réunion Island. Its name comes from the Greek word pelargos , meaning "stork," referring to the shape of its fruits. From the 19th century onward, its fragrant leaves have been used to extract a precious essential oil with a floral, rosy scent. Highly prized in perfumery, rose geranium is also known for its balancing and purifying properties.
