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GENERAL

Origin

:

sub-tropical

Humidity

:

semi-arid, semi-

humid

Propagation :

sowing and

pricking out,

cuttings

Maintenance :

high

CONDITIONS

Urban climate :

resistant

Dessication :

vulnerable

Stagnant water :

vulnerable

Irrigation

:

high

Salinity/ppm :

moderate (2000

ppm)

Hardiness

:

0°C

SHAPE

Type

:

perennial,

sub-shrub

Height

:

0.5 m-0.9 m

Spread

:

0.5 m-1 m

Foliage

:

evergreen

FLOWER

Colour

:

pink

Period

:

March - June

Smell

:

scented, aroma,

leaf

FRUIT

Type of fruit :

achene

Fruit size

:

0.5 cm

Garden Geraniums are hybrids of various South African species. They are small, erect shrubs

with herbaceous branches on a woody base reaching a maximum of about 90 cm in height and

some 70 cm in width, depending on the cultivars. Evergreen, fleshy foliage covers the plant dense-

ly. The leaf edges are lobed, and the dull green upper side often shows a ring of purple or brown.

Terminal clusters of striking flowers are available in a wide range of colours such as red, pink, lilac,

violet, orange and white. A single inflorescence usually consists of five petals, but double flowers

have many more. Although the flowering climax is in spring, flowers may be seen all year round,

if spent clusters are cut off frequently both for a neat appearance and to induce the development

of new buds. Garden Geraniums enjoy sunny locations, but will also do well in partial sun. The

soil should drain well and offer enough nutrients for the plant’s vigorous growth. The plant takes

some drought, but looks best if watered frequently. Light frosts are tolerated, but severe cold kills

the entire plant. Pruning can be done at any time to replace the brittle stems by young shoots.

Cuttings can be taken both in spring and in autumn. Sowing is a year-round alternative. These

Geraniums are the ideal plants for pots, containers and beddings. They enhance mixed borders

with splendid colours and suit both public and private sites. Regularly seen throughout the year

in Arriyadh, they are most prominent when they are planted for a winter colour display.

222

Pelargonium x hortorum,

Geraniaceae

Garden Geranium,

Zonal Geranium