Geranium, Annual (Pelargonium spp.)
Geranium, Annual Plant Features
American gardeners have had a love affair with geraniums for decades. These colorful annuals are a cinch to grow and look just as good in the border as they do in pots, planters, and window boxes. But, geraniums have a big secret. They aren't really geraniums after all, but members of the pelargonium family. True geraniums are actually perennial in nature and are sometimes called cranesbill.
Nomenclature aside, the plants we know and love as geraniums are truly wonderful plants that come in a variety of forms including: zonals, ivies, and interspecifics. All are available in a host of colors and bi-colors. Besides their flowers, zonal geraniums are prized for their pretty patterned foliage and upright form. Ivies make great basket plants because their trailing foliage and gorgeous blooms look terrific tumbling over the edge. And don't forget interspecific varieties. This relatively new type of geranium is a cross between zonal and ivy geraniums bearing the best qualities of both parents and never seem to go out of bloom. Geranium flowers are also highly prized by butterflies and hummingbirds. The plants are relatively deer resistant.
Geranium Questions?
Email us and one of our flower gardening experts will get back to you.
Nomenclature aside, the plants we know and love as geraniums are truly wonderful plants that come in a variety of forms including: zonals, ivies, and interspecifics. All are available in a host of colors and bi-colors. Besides their flowers, zonal geraniums are prized for their pretty patterned foliage and upright form. Ivies make great basket plants because their trailing foliage and gorgeous blooms look terrific tumbling over the edge. And don't forget interspecific varieties. This relatively new type of geranium is a cross between zonal and ivy geraniums bearing the best qualities of both parents and never seem to go out of bloom. Geranium flowers are also highly prized by butterflies and hummingbirds. The plants are relatively deer resistant.
Geranium Questions?
Email us and one of our flower gardening experts will get back to you.
Geraniums are sun worshippers so plant them where they will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun a day. Relatively drought resistant, geraniums still prefer a drink whenever the soil dries out. But, don't over water or the plants will rot at the base. Remove the faded flowers as they appear to keep the plant tidy and to encourage more bloom. If you are growing geraniums in pots, plant them in a commercial potting soil mix.
Get more tips for shopping for and buying beautiful geraniums.
Geranium is not recommended for human or animal consumption.
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Water
Well-drained soil
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Light
Outside: Sun
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Colors
Orange
Pink
Red
Variegated
White
Yellow
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Special Features
Attracts butterflies
Attracts hummingbirds
Deer/rabbit resistant
Fragrant flowers/foliage
Super-easy to grow
