Tender Geranium

Tender Geranium Overview

Pelargonium is a large genus containing around 230 species, sometimes incorrectly known as geraniums. There are many varieties, cultivars and hybrids of usually evergreen, sometimes succulent perennials, subshrubs and shrubs. These are native to warm temperate and tropical zones worldwide but with a centre of diversity in Southern Africa. They are commonly known by the name Geranium, this genus is often confused with the similar-looking, hardy genus called Geranium. Species from the genus Geranium are often called Hardy Geranium to distinguish between these confusing common names. They have palmately-lobed or pinnately-divided sometimes fragrant and patterned leaves and attractive umbels of 5-petalled flowers in a variety of colours and forms. Several species are popular as houseplants and as bedding in cool temperate regions where they are usually grown as annuals. Drought and heat tolerant, these plants also have a long flowering period, but need protection from frosts.