SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 970.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "970" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

mosquito plant

Scientific Name: Agastache cana

Family: Lamiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Mosquito Plant: A Fragrant Repellent (Maybe?)

The "Mosquito Plant" is a common name applied to several plants marketed for their supposed mosquito-repelling properties. It's important to understand the nuances and potential misconceptions surrounding this name.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some plants marketed as "Mosquito Plant" are geraniums.

Considerations for Children

  • Leaves can be rubbed against the skin.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: Mosquito Plant, Citronella Plant, Citronella Geranium, Citrosa Plant
  • Scientific Names: Primarily associated with Pelargonium citrosum (often incorrectly) and sometimes with lemongrass.
  • Pelargonium x citrosum 'van Leenii' is a specific hybrid geranium.

Description

  • Often described as having a lemon scent.
  • Some varieties produce pink flowers.
  • May grow to be approximately 36 inches tall.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Commonly found in nurseries in the United States and Canada.
  • Suitable for growing on patios and decks.
  • Can be planted directly in the ground or in pots, both indoors and outdoors.

Use and Effectiveness

  • Marketed as a mosquito repellent.
  • Leaves are sometimes rubbed on the skin for repellent effect.
  • The effectiveness of Pelargonium x citrosum 'van Leenii' as a mosquito repellent has been questioned in research.
  • Some plants, like lemongrass, contain citronella oil, which is an effective mosquito repellent. However, the plant itself may not be as effective as the extracted oil.

Quirky Facts

  • The "Mosquito Plant" gained popularity due to the belief that it naturally repels mosquitoes.
  • There's a humorous reference to "The Queendom of Mosquito Plant," described as a nation with "rum-swilling pirates."

Additional Information

  • Dave's Garden is a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
  • Amazon.com hosts customer reviews for various "Mosquito Plant" products.
  • eBay offers a variety of "Mosquito Plant" herb plants for sale.