Chumasande MatiwaneA garden is not only about sight but also about scent. The best fragrant plants perform their magic in summertime. The spicy scent of herbs, the delicate fragrance of roses, the exotic aroma of frangipani and the heady perfume of jasmines are just some of the fragrances plants hold in store for gardeners.
Frangipani
The scent of these flowers is most bewitching at dusk. These are small garden trees for tropical and subtropical regions. Frangipanis are also quite willing to grow successfully in temperate climates and the winter-rainfall Western Cape. The trees are deciduous with a spreading growth habit, with sturdy succulent stems tipped with oblong leaves from spring to autumn. The tree flowers for months on end in summer. They have creamy white flowers with yellow centres. The flowers have a heady and tropical scent reminiscent of a mix of jasmine, gardenia, citrus and spice, carrying a symbolic meaning of welcome at the entrance of your garden gate.
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Gardenia
The gardenia is affectionately known as the flower of love. Gardenia plants embody the essence of all types of love, whether romantic or platonic. Their pure white flowers, which can be single or double blooms, are beautifully complemented by glossy dark green leaves. These flowers are fragrant both day and night, with a spicy, zesty aroma that has hints of coconut. It is much loved by moths at night. Gardenias have a long flowering season from late spring to autumn, with a main flowering flush around summertime. Plant them in a pretty pot on a cosy patio. The perfect place to spend long and sultry summer evenings.
Jasmine
These flowers require a sturdy trellis to support them. It is not a climber normally planted in the garden. Rather, grow these flowers as a very exotic potted specimen in your courtyard or covered patio. The leaves are large, oval and glossy. The small trumpet-shaped, waxy flowers are pure white with a rich and heavy jasmine scent. Some mature jasmine plants can also produce large fruit. These plants can be challenging and have very specific growing needs.
Pelargoniums
Some of these indigenous Pelargonium species are well-known for their fragrance. These pretty and fragrant plants are also easy to grow. Just plant them next to pathways where passersby brush against them to get the fragrance. You can also pot them up to display near seating areas, such as a patio or near a braai station. The foliage scents are reminiscent of rose, lemon, spice and mint. The leaves are also perfect for brewing herbal teas.
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