Alvesgaspar / CC BY-SA 3.0
garden
Geranium
Geranium nepalense
EdibleMedicinal
Overview
The term 'geranium' encompasses both true hardy geraniums (cranesbills) and the tender Pelargoniums commonly grown as annuals. Scented-leaf geraniums offer an astonishing range of fragrances including rose, lemon, mint, chocolate, and nutmeg, all from rubbing their aromatic foliage. Hardy cranesbills are tough, long-blooming ground covers, while Pelargoniums are classic window box and container plants.
Growing Conditions
LightFull Sun
MoistureModerate
Hardiness Zones7 — 11
Height1m
Spread0.5m
Growth HabitForb/herb
Pollinator Valuehigh
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeWell-drained, moderately fertile soil
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Start Indoors | Jan — Feb | Start indoors 12-14 weeks before last frost; slow grower from seed |
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | Jun — Jun | Transplant after all frost; take cuttings in fall to overwinter indoors |
| Cold (1-2) | Bloom | Jun — Sep | Bloom until frost; remove faded flower clusters at base of stem |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | May — May | Transplant after last frost; deadhead regularly for continuous bloom |
| Cool (3-4) | Bloom | May — Oct | Long bloom; excellent on patios and balconies |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Apr — May | Transplant in spring; classic container, window box, and bedding plant |
| Moderate (5-7) | Bloom | Apr — Nov | Continuous bloom with deadheading; allow soil to dry between waterings |
| Warm (8-9) | Transplant | Mar — Apr | Plant in spring; may need afternoon shade in hottest areas |
| Warm (8-9) | Bloom | Mar — Jun | Spring bloom; may stall in summer heat then rebloom in fall |
| Warm (8-9) | Bloom | Sep — Dec | Fall rebloom |
| Hot (10+) | Transplant | Feb — Mar | Plant in early spring; or grow as fall/winter annual in hottest zones |
| Hot (10+) | Bloom | Oct — Apr (wraps) | Cool-season bloom; best fall through spring |
Uses
Culinary
- Scented-leaf varieties flavor cakes, jellies, and sugar
- Rose geranium leaves layered in cake pans for flavor
- Flowers used as edible garnish
Medicinal
- Rose geranium essential oil used for anxiety and skin care
- Traditional astringent for wound care and inflammation
- Aromatherapy for stress relief and hormonal balance
Other Uses
- Classic window box and container plant
- Scented varieties used as natural air fresheners
- Hardy cranesbills are excellent ground covers
