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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