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Pelargonium sidoides
  • RHS AGM

African geranium

A compact rosette of soft grey leaves that are curiously scented. Dainty, dark-purple flowers are held aloft on wiry stems at a maximum height of about 30cm

Synonyms
Pelargonium sidifolium
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Grey Silver
Summer Purple Grey Silver
Autumn Grey Silver
Winter Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Geraniaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Pelargonium can be perennials, sub-shrubs or shrubs, sometimes succulent and mostly evergreen, with palmately lobed or pinnately divided leaves and clusters of slightly irregular, 5-petalled flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Temp S Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Requires frost-free conditions and good light. See pelargonium cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by cuttings in spring and summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
Pruning

Deadhead and remove yellowing leaves

Pests

Generally trouble-free but may be susceptible to aphids in spring

Diseases

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to pelargonium rust and pelargonium viruses

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