Facts on Geranium Flowers

The geranium is a perennial flower that is botanically known as a Pelargonium. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, there are more than 200 species of geraniums and many hybrids, most of which are native to South Africa.

Identification

• Geranium flowers come in a wide variety of colors including red, pink, white, salmon, lavender and even multicolors. Plant forms and leaf patterns also vary, from upright growers to trailing varieties. Some leaves are circular and velvety, while others are lacy.

Features

• Geraniums are versatile landscape plants that flower in just about any location, including beds, hanging baskets, pots and window boxes. According to the North Carolina University Cooperative Extension, geraniums also do well as houseplants.

Requirements

• Outdoors geraniums require a full sun location to flower well. They need water when the first 2 to 3 inches of soil has dried and a well-balanced fertilizer at planting time. Indoor geraniums require high light and temperatures from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and about 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Fun Fact

• Although geranium flowers tend to have an unpleasant odor, some varieties have scented foliage that is high in aromatic oils such as lemon, lime, rose, mint, pineapple, apple and nutmeg.