Horseshoe Geranium

(Pelargonium zonale)

Horseshoe Geranium (Pelargonium zonale)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pelargonium zonale, commonly known as Horseshoe Geranium, is an evergreen perennial subshrub or herb, native to the grasslands and open scrublands of South Africa. It typically grows to about 1 meter (3 feet) in height and can be upright or scrambling in form. The stems are succulent and hairy when young, becoming woody as they age. The leaves are rounded with a distinct brownish-purple horseshoe-shaped mark, hence the common name. The flowers are borne in an umbel, with each individual flower being markedly zygomorphic. Petals are narrow and a bright, deep pink, with reddish lines along their length, and they bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Horseshoe Geranium is valued for its vibrant flowers and ease of maintenance. It is commonly used in container plantings, borders, and as a houseplant. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate part shade, and prefers well-drained soil. While it can survive low water conditions, moderate watering will keep it flourishing. Propagation is typically done through cuttings, as this ensures the offspring will be true to the parent plant. It can be susceptible to geranium rust, a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves. To prevent this, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. In non-native regions, it should be monitored for potential invasiveness.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to the grasslands and open scrublands of South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Horseshoe Pelargonium , Wilde Malva , 무늬제라늄 , Geranio Rosado , Zonierte Pelargonie

Scientific Names: Pelargonium zonale , Pelargonium stenopetalum , Geranium zonale , Pelargonium novum , Geranium crenatum , Pelargonium crenatum , Pelargonium leucanthum , Ciconium clarum , Ciconium cocciniflorum , Ciconium crenatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Pelargonium zonale (L.) L’Hér.