Pelargonium radens is an evergreen perennial plant, growing to up to 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in) high.

It is originally from the southern and eastern Cape, South Africa, where it grows in ravines or gorges near streams or among shrubs on mountainsides.

These include: Traditionally the edible leaves were used as a flavoring in jellies and in herbal teas.

This essential oil is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe by the US FDA when small quantities are added to foods.

It is also cultivated as an ornamental in, e.g., North America, in USDA hardiness zones 10–11.