Page 14 - feb21

sc gardens - plant enthusiasts

Pelargoniums and Geraniums
make superb garden plants, they
are hardy, they fit a range of
diverse conditions and can
transform problem areas of dry
shade with their beautiful foliage and flowers. South
Africa is known for its rich diversity of Pelargoniums,
whereas we only have one indigenous species in
Botswana, Pelargonium dolomiticum.
These two genuses are easily confused, as they both look
very much alike. Geraniums flower shapes are rounded
with similar sized petals, whereas Pelargonium flowers
usually have five petals with the two upper petals larger
than the lower three. Pelargoniums have richly coloured
flowers often with variegated or heavily fragrant foliage,
some ‘ivy-leaved’ with a trailing habit ideal for hanging baskets.

There are many species, varieties, and cultivars that are well
known as garden plants, commonly found at nurseries:
Geranium sanguineum (Top left); and a few are also known
as medicinal plants like Pelargonium sidoides (3rd left), used
traditionally to treat coughs and colds. Essential oils of
Pelargonium species are used in Aromatherapy, considered
a relaxant; and for intestinal problems, wounds, respiratory
ailments and other conditions. Geranium incanum (opposite
page) is used traditionally in South Africa to make a
medicinal tea from the leaves which is used to offer relief
from certain complaints such as bladder infections.

Geraniums are temperate plants, so will need more
protection in the garden. Pelargoniums are basically sun
loving plants, but in our very hot gardens, they will prefer
a semi-shaded spot. They need well-drained soil - avoid
over-watering which can cause the plant to rot and will
encourage growth at the expense of flowers. Watch out for
frost, and prune to promote new lush growth. In autumn,
take cuttings to propagate new plants. Text and Photos by S.C
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