Pelargonium

What does Pelargonium look like?

Pelargonium plants come in many forms, from low-growing perennials to upright shrubs and even succulents. Their leaves are usually lobed or divided, sometimes with striking patterns or scents. The flowers have five petals, often in shades of red, pink, white, orange, yellow, or purple, and are grouped in clusters. Unlike true Geraniums, their flowers are symmetrical along one line, with two upper and three lower petals.

Where does Pelargonium come from?

Most Pelargonium species are native to southern Africa, especially the southwestern part where winter rains are common. A smaller number are found in Australia, Madagascar, and parts of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The first European descriptions came in the 18th century, and the group was separated from true Geraniums by botanists based on flower structure and other features.

When and how Pelargonium blooms

Pelargoniums bloom over a long period, especially in mild climates. They thrive in warm, sunny places with well-drained soil and can handle dry conditions but are sensitive to hard frost. Many are grown from cuttings or seeds, and breeders have created a wide range of varieties with different flower colors, leaf shapes, and scents.

How Pelargonium is used

These plants are widely grown as ornamentals in gardens, containers, and indoors. Their long flowering time and tolerance for dry conditions make them popular choices for bedding and houseplants. Some species are used as emblems or symbols in certain regions, and their aromatic leaves are sometimes valued for their scent.

Kinds of Pelargonium

There are hundreds of Pelargonium species and many more hybrids and cultivars. They are grouped into several subgenera and sections based on flower and leaf features. Some are grown mainly for their showy blooms, while others are prized for scented foliage or unusual forms, such as trailing or succulent types.

What Pelargonium means

Pelargoniums have been cultivated in Europe and elsewhere since the 17th century. They are often confused with true Geraniums, but differ in flower shape and growth habit. In some countries, they are used as regional emblems or in public plantings. Their diversity and adaptability have made them a staple of gardens around the world.

Where Pelargonium is used and seen

AbsoluteA concentrated aromatic plant extract used in perfumeryHunter Valley GardensA vast themed garden and event venue in Pokolbin, New South Wales

Traditions that use it

Where to see Pelargonium

🇦🇪 Dubai · Jan to DecDubai Miracle GardenA winter-only display garden in the desert, with huge structures covered in bedding flowers. 🇮🇱 Haifa · All yearBaha'i Gardens of HaifaNineteen formal terraces that step down Mount Carmel around the golden-domed Shrine of the Bab. 🇿🇦 Plettenberg Bay · Aug to NovGarden Route coastal fynbos walksCoastal paths along South Africa's southern shore, through fynbos and old forest. 🇫🇷 Paris · All yearThe flower market on the Île de la CitéGreen iron pavilions of plants and flowers on the island at the centre of Paris, a short walk from Notre-Dame. 🇪🇸 Córdoba · MayThe patios of Córdoba in MayFor two weeks each May, families in Córdoba's old quarters open their flower-filled courtyards to anyone who walks in.

Questions people ask about Pelargonium

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• How to grow pelargoniums / RHS Growing GuideRoyal Horticultural Society, Article
• BBC - Gardening - Gardening Guides - TechniquesBBC, Article
• The British islands that disappear every dayBBC, Article
• Plants of the World OnlineRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Plant database
• Where it has been recordedGBIF, Plant database
• Sightings and photos by naturalistsiNaturalist, Plant database

• Pelargonium on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data