Pelargonium – All You
Need To Know
Pelargonium
Pelargonium sidoides is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It’s used as medicine by the native populations of South Africa. Pelargonium sidoides might work by killing bacteria or preventing bacteria from attaching to surfaces within the body.
People use Pelargonium sidoides for bronchitis, common cold, COPD, sore throat, asthma, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Pelargonium sidoides is sometimes called geranium.
Don’t confuse Pelargonium sidoides with rose geranium oil or spotted geranium. These are not the same.
Fun Fact:
The leaves and flowers of the scented geranium are edible – yes, really!
Types of Pelargonium
There are several types of Pelargonium, each with unique features:
- Zonal Pelargonium: Known for their upright growth and circular, banded leaves, often seen in bright flower beds.
- Ivy-leaved Pelargonium: Trailing plants with glossy leaves, perfect for hanging baskets.
- Scented-leaved Pelargonium: Grown for their fragrant leaves, offering a range of scents like lemon, rose, and mint.
- Regal Pelargonium: Larger, showy flowers, ideal for container gardens.
- Angel Pelargonium: Compact plants with dainty flowers, great for small spaces.
These varieties offer diverse options for gardens and containers.
Where to plant Pelargonium
Pelargoniums thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets. They prefer areas with plenty of light, such as patios, balconies, or window boxes. Avoid planting them in areas prone to waterlogging.
For regions with harsh winters, Pelargoniums can be grown in pots and moved indoors during colder months. Ideal planting locations include borders for zonal varieties, hanging baskets for ivy-leaved types, and sunny walkways for scented-leaved varieties.
Basic care of Pelargonium
- Sunlight: Ensure they receive full sun for at least 6 hours a day.
- Watering: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as they prefer well-drained soil.
- Pruning: Regularly deadhead spent blooms and prune leggy growth to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Frost Protection: Bring plants indoors or protect them during cold winters, as they are frost-sensitive.
Buy Plants Wholesale
Wholesale plants are available for governments, civic associations and NPOs.
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