Pelargonium

Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Geraniaceae, comprising about 280 species. Native to southern Africa, especially the Cape region, pelargoniums are widely cultivated for ornamental use. In horticulture, Pelargonium is commonly referred to as geranium, while true geraniums belong to the related genus Geranium. The plants are mostly herbaceous perennials or shrubs with attractive foliage and showy flowers.

Leaves are typically palmately lobed and may be scented, with varieties ranging from plain green to variegated or deeply dissected. Flowers are produced in showy inflorescences and bear five petals; many cultivated forms display a two-tone pattern or irregular coloring. A nectar spur is present in many species, helping attract pollinators. Pelargoniums show considerable diversity in growth habit, from low mats to upright shrubs.

Cultivation and uses: They are popular ornamental plants for borders, containers, and window boxes. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun and are relatively drought-tolerant. In temperate regions they are grown as annuals or kept as tender perennials indoors during winter. Propagation is commonly by stem cuttings. Some species and cultivars are grown for scented leaves, such as rose-, lemon-, or peppermint-scented types. Essential oils derived from certain pelargoniums, especially Pelargonium graveolens (rose geranium), are used in perfumery, cosmetics, and flavorings.