Geranium

Geraniums are cheerful flowers that are easy to grow! They bloom in many colors and can add beauty to any garden.

Habitat: Gardens and outdoor spaces

Appearance

The Geranium has delicate, five-petaled flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, or blue. Its leaves are typically lobed or deeply cut, often forming attractive mounds. Many species exhibit distinct veining on their petals.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassSpermatophytaOrderGeranialesFamilyGeraniaceaeGenusGeranium

Geranium

Interesting facts

Don't confuse true Geraniums with 'Martha Washington' flowers, which are a different plant called Pelargonium!

Geranium flower petals can sometimes change color as they age, getting darker or lighter!

Some Geranium species are so tough, they can grow high up in cold mountain regions!

The name 'Geranium' comes from a Greek word meaning 'crane', inspired by its seed pod's shape!

Special abilities

Geranium can launch its seeds away from the parent plant using a special spring-loaded mechanism, helping them find new places to grow.

Some Geraniums have fragrant leaves that release oils when touched, which helps them deter hungry animals and insects.

Geraniums can spread through underground stems called rhizomes, allowing them to quickly colonize an area and store energy.

Measurements & details

Height: 30-90 cm
Spread: 30-60 cm
Flower Size: 1-3 cm
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Edible: Yes
Toxicity: Mild
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

Honey bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen

pollinates

Painted lady butterfly

Vanessa cardui

Feeds on flower nectar

eaten by

White-tailed deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Browses on leaves and stems

eaten by

Black slug

Arion ater

Chews on young leaves

Traits

Flowering

Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.

Ornamental

Ornamental plants are cultivated primarily for their aesthetic appeal, enhancing landscapes and gardens with their attractive foliage, flowers, or form.