Pelargoniums: An Herb Society of America Guide

Garden Uses

Ground planting featuring P. 'Fair Ellen' (center)

Pelargoniums have a variety of uses in the garden, both in-ground and in containers. They can be grown in pots on patios and decks (6, 10) as well as in window boxes and hanging baskets. Species like P. crispum can be trained into standards. With its intense peppermint scent, large leaves and velvety stems, P. tomentosum is ideal for children's gardens (4). P. tomentosum can also be planted in a circle around trees since its roots are shallow enough not to interfere with the tree's root system (70). Many of the scenteds can be useful in gardens for the blind due to their aromas and textures (63). Low-growing plants like P. 'Nutmeg' can be planted along pathways and walk edgings (10). P. 'Mrs. Taylor,' P. 'Round Leaf Rose' and P. grossularioides can be planted as groundcovers in shady areas, and P. 'Nutmeg' can be used as a groundcover in sunny areas (70). P. 'Old Spice' (syn. P. 'Logee'), P. 'Golden Nutmeg,' P. abrotanifolium (southernwood geranium) and others can be planted in rock gardens. P. 'Nutmeg' can be shaped into bonsai (70). Scenteds can be planted in fragrant gardens and culinary gardens, and plants like 'Nutmeg,' 'Old Spice,' P. reniforme and P. abrotanifolium are perfect additions to gardens of gray and silver plants (80). 

Sandy Manteuffel likes planting pelargoniums near and among flowers for added color. Her 
favorites include petunias, periwinkle, blue salvia, zonal geraniums, ivy geraniums and alyssum (58). If planting with other plants, remember to choose plants with similar growth requirements (9). Susan Belsinger likes to group with pots of plants that provide a nice contrast with Pelargonium leaves, such as a large lemon verbena (12). If you like the look of ferns but have too much sun, Joyce Brobst suggests planting the fern-leafed Pelargonium denticulatum, which looks great in the summer next to blue Salvia farinaceae (3).

According to Mark Langan, small types like P. crispum and P. 'French Lace' would be "lost in the landscape" but work well in small pots or the front of a mixed container. Mark plants larger scenteds in the landscape with grassy plants like society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea), Miscanthus sp. and New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax). According to Mark, New Zealand flax combined with scenteds creates a "bold and dramatic, tropical look in the landscape." For non-stop blooms and a consistent flower show all summer long, Mark recommends 'Nutmeg,' 'Old Spice,' P. 'Concolor Lace,' P. odoratissimum and P. grossularioides (47).

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