Geraniums are very attractive and popular outdoor plants. They add fragrant foliage and bright blooms wherever they are planted, whether in the garden, pots, planters or containers. And because it’s a plant we love, we’ve rounded up the six facts about geraniums that will have you out to find yours in our garden.
- There are hundreds of known species of geraniums. Geraniums are native to South Africa and, in the 17th century, made their way to Europe, where they remain popular plantings.
- Many species of geraniums have very fragrant leaves. Geraniums are known for their aromatic green foliage, the fragrance of which varies from plant to plant. Common plant names usually refer to the fragrance of their leaves: almond geranium, apple geranium, lime geranium, nutmeg geranium, mint geranium. Other geraniums produce fragrances that smell like roses and lemons.
- Geranium leaves can be used in cooking. Both the flowers and the aromatic foliage of geraniums are edible and can be used for culinary purposes. Fresh leaves of all kinds can be used to flavor jelly and iced drinks. You can even use dried leaves in sachets to make an infusion. They can also be used to flavor sugar, iced tea, lemonade, cakes, biscuits and salads.
- Geraniums are drought tolerant. These plants love sunny, bright climates and moderate to regular watering, provided they are planted in well-drained soil. They are relatively low maintenance plantings and excellent choices for container gardening.
- They live in pots without any problem. Geraniums thrive when placed in pots. Containers are a great home for geraniums, as the pots keep the plants in coral form and can also be easily moved to ensure that the geraniums receive enough bright sunlight. Some geraniums also grow best with some afternoon shade.
- The heat can tire your geraniums. Although drought tolerant, high summer heat can take its toll on these plants. Many common geraniums stop blooming in hot weather, a condition known as “heat control,” whereupon, they will resume blooming when cooler weather arrives.
Since you have an interest in geraniums, we invite you to make your own terrarium at home.Do you want to know how to keep your indoor plants healthy and strong? Subscribe to our specialized newsletter on plant care, gardening tips, home decorating ideas and much more.