ABSTRACT

Species of Pelargonium have long been in cultivation because of their attractive scents and bright colours. Geranium oil, which is derived from several Pelargonuim species, is an important plant crop. It is among the top 20 of plant volatile oils and the annual world production is worth nearly 7 million pounds. It is not surprising therefore that the chemical study of Pelargonium has concentrated on the essential oils present. Over 120 volatile constituents have been detected. Work has also been devoted to producing these volatiles in shoot-organ culture of Pelargonium material.