Geranium

Geranium is a genus of 422 species of flowering annual, biennial, and perennial plants that are commonly known as the cranesbills. They are found throughout the temperate regions of the world and the mountains of the tropics, but mostly in the eastern part of the Mediterranean region.

Description

The long, palmately cleft leaves are broadly circular in form. The flowers have five petals and are coloured white, pink, purple or blue, often with distinctive veining. Geraniums will grow in any soil as long as it is not waterlogged. Propagation is by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, by seed, or by division in autumn or spring.

Uses

Geraniums are used as a beautiful decorative plant and also have uses in the culinary world. Some species are also used in traditional medicine.

Species

The species in the Geranium genus include:

• Geranium maculatum - Also known as the Wood Geranium, it is a perennial plant native to woodland in eastern North America.
• Geranium robertianum - Known as Herb Robert, it is a common species in Europe and parts of Asia.
• Geranium sanguineum - Known as Bloody Geranium, it is native to Europe and Asia.
• Geranium pratense - Known as Meadow Cranesbill, it is found in Europe and Asia.

Cultivation

Geraniums are easy to grow and are particularly favored for the reliability of flowering. They are used in cottage garden schemes and offer a long season of pollen and nectar for a number of pollinators, particularly bees.

See also

• Pelargonium - A genus of flowering plants which includes about 280 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as geraniums.

External links

• Geraniums Online

Geranium Resources
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