If you love plants, then you’re probably familiar with geraniums. Some of the most common varieties of geraniums are zonal geraniums, which get their name from the dark circular markings on their leaves. Zonal geraniums are very popular because they are easy to care for and produce beautiful, vibrant flowers.
Another type of geranium is the regal geranium. Regal geraniums, sometimes called Martha Washington geraniums, are known for their large, showy flowers in a wide range of colors. They are generally grown as annuals and can add a splash of color to any garden or planter.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, ivy-leaved geraniums are a great choice. These geraniums have sprawling, ivy-shaped foliage and produce small, delicate flowers. They are perfect for hanging baskets or trailing over window boxes, adding a touch of elegance to any outdoor space.
For those who enjoy scented plants, scented-leaf geraniums are a must-have. With their fragrant leaves, scented-leaf geraniums can be used to create potpourri or add a pleasant aroma to your home. Some popular scented-leaf geranium varieties include rose, lemon, and mint.
Regardless of the type of geranium you choose, caring for them is relatively easy. Geraniums prefer well-draining soil, so make sure to use compost or a well-balanced potting mix. They should be watered regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Geraniums also enjoy plenty of sunlight, so make sure to place them in a sunny location, either indoors or outdoors.
Overall, geraniums are a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden or home. Whether you prefer the bold colors of zonal geraniums, the regal beauty of regal geraniums, the trailing foliage of ivy-leaved geraniums, or the scented leaves of scented-leaf geraniums, there is a geranium variety for every gardener. So why not discover the joy of growing and caring for geraniums in your own yard or garden?
(We may receive a commission on purchases made from links)
Geranium pelargonium types explained
When it comes to geraniums, there are several types to choose from. The most common types of geraniums are the annual varieties, which are very popular for their vibrant and eye-catching blooms. These plants are suitable for growing in planters and can add a splashy burst of color to any home or garden.
One of the most well-known geranium types is the regal geranium (Pelargonium x domesticum), also known as Martha Washington geraniums. These plants have large and decorative flowers in a wide range of colors, making them a great choice for adding beauty to any outdoor space. Regal geraniums are generally grown as annuals and require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Another popular type of geranium is the ivy-leaved geranium (Pelargonium peltatum). As the name suggests, these geraniums have leaves that resemble ivy and can be grown in hanging baskets, window boxes, or as ground cover. Ivy-leaved geraniums are known for their trailing habit and can produce flowers in a variety of colors. They are generally low-maintenance plants that can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Scented-leaf geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are another type of geranium that is much loved for their pleasant fragrance. These geraniums come in a wide range of scents, including rose, lemon, mint, and many more. Scented-leaf geraniums are often grown for their aromatic leaves and are suitable for growing both indoors and outdoors.
Interspecific geraniums are a cross between different geranium species, resulting in plants with unique characteristics. These geraniums can have a combination of traits from their parent plants and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Interspecific geraniums are known for their hardiness and can be a great choice for gardeners who want a plant that can withstand different climates.
Coral geraniums (Pelargonium zonale) are another popular type of geranium that is often grown outdoors. These plants have vibrant and eye-catching flowers in shades of coral, pink, red, and white. Coral geraniums are known for their long blooming season and can add a beautiful touch to any garden or patio.
So, whether you love the regal, ivy-leaved, scented-leaf, interspecific, or coral geraniums, there is a type that suits your taste and growing conditions. With proper care and maintenance, these geraniums can thrive and bring beauty to your home or outdoor space.
Zonal Geraniums
Zonal geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, are a popular variety of geraniums that have bright, eye-catching flowers. They are called “zonal” because of the distinct zone or band of color on their leaves. The leaves are sometimes hairy or peltatum and are coarsely toothed.
Zonal geraniums come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, white, and fancy shades like apple blossom and angel face. They should be grown in a yard or garden where they can get at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can also be grown indoors, placed near a sunny window.
These geraniums are not frost-hardy and should be brought indoors or treated as annuals in cold climates. The plants can grow up to 18 inches tall and have bold and decorative foliage. Zonal geraniums are known for their prolific flowering, with each plant producing a large number of blooms throughout the growing season.
One popular zonal geranium variety is the “Mrs. Henry Cox” geranium, which features deep red flowers with a gold splash in the center. Another popular variety is the “Sophie James” geranium, which has late blooms and bright pink flowers. Zonal geraniums are winners in gardening competitions, including the All-American Selections and the Washington State University Master Gardener program.
| Zone | Zonal Geranium Varieties |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Scented-leaf Zonal Geranium |
| Zone 2 | Gold Angel Zonal Geranium |
| Zone 3 | Headley Angel Zonal Geranium |
| Zone 4 | Washington Zonal Geranium |
Zonal geraniums are suitable for planting in flower beds, planters, and other decorative containers. They can also be used as ground cover in garden borders. These plants are relatively easy to care for and require regular watering, as well as occasional fertilization. With the right care, zonal geraniums can provide beautiful and vibrant flowers for your home or garden.
Image Source: Getty Images
Ivy-leaved geraniums
When it comes to caring for geraniums at home, the ivy-leaved varieties are among the most popular choices. These plants are named for their ivy-like leaves, which cascade down from hanging baskets or spill over the edges of pots. Ivy-leaved geraniums are suitable for both indoor and outdoor growing, making them a versatile choice for any gardener.
One of the main advantages of ivy-leaved geraniums is their ability to withstand frost. Unlike other types of geraniums, they can survive in colder climates and continue to flower well into late fall or early winter. This makes them an excellent choice for gardeners in regions with a shorter growing season.
Ivy-leaved geraniums come in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, red, coral, and purple. Some popular varieties include ‘Sophie Getty,’ ‘Martha Washington,’ and ‘Angel.’ These plants typically reach a height of 16 inches or more and have a trailing growth habit.
When it comes to care requirements, ivy-leaved geraniums are generally low-maintenance. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. However, they can tolerate some shade and will still flower in darker sites.
One important tip for growing ivy-leaved geraniums is to avoid overwatering. These plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings, so be sure to allow the top inch or so of soil to dry before watering again.
Ivy-leaved geraniums can be grown from seed, but it’s easier to start with young plants from a garden center or nursery. They can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or in the ground, making them a versatile choice for different garden settings.
In addition to their showy flowers, ivy-leaved geraniums are loved for their bold foliage. Their leaves are often larger and more textured than other geranium types, adding visual interest to any garden or window display.
Whether you’re a new or experienced gardener, ivy-leaved geraniums are a great choice for adding color and beauty to your home or garden. With their hardy nature and easy care requirements, they’re sure to thrive in a variety of conditions. Discover the joy of growing ivy-leaved geraniums and share their beauty with your neighbors and friends.
Fancy leaf geraniums
Fancy leaf geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, are a popular choice for gardeners who love beautiful foliage and eye-catching flowers. These geraniums have leaves that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a great addition to any garden or window box. The name “fancy leaf” refers to the unique patterns and colors found on the leaves of these geraniums.
There are several different varieties of fancy leaf geraniums, each with its own unique characteristics and requirements. Some varieties, like the regal geraniums, have large, colorful flowers that are very fragrant. Others, like the ivy-leaved geraniums, have long trailing stems that are perfect for hanging baskets or window boxes.
Fancy leaf geraniums are generally grown as annuals, although some varieties are hardy enough to survive the winter and come back year after year. They can be planted in the ground or in containers, depending on your preference and the available space. These geraniums require plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil to thrive.
Caring for fancy leaf geraniums is relatively simple. They should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the plants every two to four weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowers. Pruning may be necessary to maintain shape and control the size of the plant.
One of the benefits of fancy leaf geraniums is the wide range of colors they come in. From vibrant shades of pink, red, and orange to softer pastel hues and even variegated patterns, there is a fancy leaf geranium to suit every gardener’s taste. Whether you prefer bold and bright blossoms or more subtle and understated blooms, there is a fancy leaf geranium that will add beauty to your garden.
In summary, fancy leaf geraniums are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces. These striking plants come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice for any garden or window box. With proper care and maintenance, fancy leaf geraniums will thrive and bring beauty to your garden year after year.
