Van Leenii Citronella Geranium

Van Leenii Citronella Geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) is the ultimate "functional" plant for your outdoor living spaces. Famous for its powerful lemon-scented foliage, this variety is highly effective at driving away mosquitoes and other pests, especially when temperatures and humidity are high. Its ability to act as a natural mosquito repellent makes it a must-have for patios, decks, and poolside seating areas.

This vigorous perennial features deeply lobed, lace-like green leaves and produces delicate pink flowers. While it can grow into a substantial 5-foot shrub in the garden, it is easily kept compact in decorative pots. 'Van Leenii' is remarkably adaptable—it thrives in the summer sun but also transitions seamlessly into an easy-care indoor houseplant during the winter months. Its drought-tolerant and deer-resistant nature makes it a reliable performer for low-maintenance landscapes.

Why you’ll love it:

• Natural Pest Control: Intense lemon fragrance helps keep mosquitoes and flies at bay.
• Versatile Growth: Thrives outdoors in the sun and functions perfectly as an indoor windowsill plant.
• Resilient & Hardy: Exceptionally drought tolerant and naturally resistant to deer.
• Beautiful Pink Blooms: Adds a touch of soft color to its highly aromatic, textured foliage.
• Fast Growing: Quickly establishes itself to provide a lush, green presence in any garden or pot.

This 4-inch healthy live plant thrives in full sun (or partial shade in hotter climates) and prefers well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, as this variety prefers to dry out between waterings. While it is frost-tender, it can be easily overwintered indoors in a bright spot. Hardy in USDA Zone 8, the Van Leenii Citronella Geranium is your best defense for a comfortable, pest-free summer evening.