geran

Geran is a term that most commonly refers to the plant group associated with the genus Geranium, also known as cranesbills. In botanical usage, Geranium is a distinct genus in the family Geraniaceae, containing roughly 400 species of herbaceous perennials, and in some climates annuals or short-lived plants. The name geranium is sometimes used more broadly in horticulture to describe garden plants that are commonly sold as “geraniums,” a usage that often leads to confusion with the closely related genus Pelargonium.

Description and taxonomy

Geranium species are typically herbaceous, with leaves that are often palmately lobed or divided and stems that can form spreading clumps. Flowers have five petals and are arranged in loose inflorescences; petal color ranges from white and pink to purple and red, frequently with contrasting veining. The fruit is characteristically crane-like in shape, which inspired the common name cranesbill and the botanical root geran-.

Distribution and cultivation

Geraniums are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and to high mountainous areas in tropical regions. They are widely cultivated as ornamental plants for borders, rock gardens, and containers. Requirements vary by species but generally include well-drained soil, adequate sun, and regular deadheading to encourage flowering. Many cultivars and hybrids exist, selected for hardiness, flower color, and foliage texture. Propagation is commonly by seed, division, or cuttings.

Distinguishing notes

In everyday gardening, the term geranium is often used interchangeably with Pelargonium, the genus that encompasses most of the tender outdoor “geraniums” sold for summer bedding. Botanically, Geranium (cranesbill) and Pelargonium are separate genera within Geraniaceae, with differences in floral arrangement and leaf form. Etymology derives from the Greek geranos, meaning crane, referring to the fruit’s shape.