Geranium varietal indoor. Indoor geranium: types and varieties with photos and names. Pelargonium care

Geranium is a flower that in our time has come to be considered "grandmother's", because it has been known for a very long time in indoor and garden floriculture, and it is mainly the older generation that is engaged in breeding and collecting these plants.

Young people imagine geranium in its standard form: rounded panicles of red flowers and double dark green leaves. In fact, progress does not stand still, and breeders have discovered a lot of varieties of pelargonium, which differ in flower shape, leaf color, plant size and other parameters.

If you want to buy a houseplant that will not require constant careful care and annual transplants, while remaining very decorative for a long time, then you should think about growing some kind of indoor geranium.

Types of geraniums with photos

In order to understand the choice of the variety, it is necessary to consider the groups according to which indoor pelargoniums are divided. They will be presented below with descriptions general characteristics species group

Geranium zoned (edged)

It will be immediately recognizable by the characteristic color of the leaves: a dark green leaf is, as it were, bordered by a brown stripe, hence the second name of the species. It is the zonal geranium that is the “grandmother's” species, because this group is the most widespread and has more than 70,000 varieties.

Their division is carried out not only by the color of the flowers, but also by their shape. Allocate simple flowers, semi-double and double. It is clear that, depending on the complexity of the flower, they have a different number of petals.

Also, the leaves differ in the severity of the dark stripe: in some varieties of geranium it is visible very clearly, in others it is practically invisible, the width of the border also depends on the variety.

Ivy geranium

It is an ampelous type of pelargonium that produces many long, flowing shoots. In this regard, ivy geraniums are planted in hanging planters or pots standing high. It should be borne in mind that ivy-leaved varieties produce lashes up to 1 m long.

The group is also characterized by the absolute smoothness and glossiness of the leaves, which resemble ivy leaves. Hence the name of the group.

Geranium Angel

Also applies to ampelous, however, the lashes are shorter. The flower is interesting here: it very much resembles a viola (pansies) and looks very beautiful in a panicle.

Fragrant geranium

Here, from the name it becomes clear why this group is interesting to flower growers. The smell of the sea, it all depends on the specific variety. The pelargoniums collected in this group contain phytoncides in their leaves, which are responsible for the production of aroma. The smell is very strong, especially when you touch the plant.

I would like to note right away that the appearance of fragrant geranium is not as interesting as in previous cases: the leaves are green with fluff, uneven and large, the flowers are simple standard colors.

The plant itself develops rapidly and therefore can be pulled upwards. In order for the bush to be a bush, and not a couple of long shoots, it is necessary to pinch it periodically.

Royal geranium

Perhaps the most beautiful pelargoniums belong to this particular species. The flowers are also collected in paniculate, rounded inflorescences, but each of them can reach 7 cm in diameter. Thus, the flower caps are simply gigantic. And their color can be very different, and here we mean not only the main color, but also the presence of veins, edges, spots, etc.

Geranium Unicum

Indeed, it can be considered unique, since it has collected many interesting features: the flowers are very beautiful, with veins and patterns, which the previous group can boast of, but the size, of course, is not that large.

The leaves are also decorative and at the same time have a certain aroma, depending on the particular variety. It is slightly weaker than that of fragrant pelargonium, but quite distinct.

They are small bushes that bloom profusely and do not require pruning at all. The varieties of such geraniums are useful for those who have all the windowsills already filled with other plants.

Now we can consider some interesting views geraniums, which differ precisely in the shape of the flower. These include:

• rosaceous zonal... The flowers resemble real small roses gathered in a panicle;
• cactus-like zonal... It is difficult to say whether they are beautiful or not. This is an option for an amateur. The flowers themselves are large, and the petals are twisted into cones and resemble the thorns of cacti;
• star-shaped zonal... They are named so in connection with the shape of the petal - it is pointed, narrowed towards the top;
• clove... The carnation has serrated petals, and it is this property that this group of geraniums has adopted.

Planting geraniums

Geraniums are available in three varieties: seeds, rooted cuttings, and a well-developed mature bush. Their cultivation must be considered separately.

Pelargonium seeds are large enough, so, as a rule, problems with planting them, as a rule, do not arise even for novice florists. When planting seeds, they are laid with the flat side on the ground, slightly pressing down. The distance between the seeds is maintained at least 2 cm.

After they have been planted in the ground, the ground is not watered with a watering can, but well sprayed from a spray bottle, so the seeds will not wash out and remain in place.

Usually, in order for geraniums to bloom in summer, planting of its seeds begins at the end of February. A plastic bag is put on the container in which the seeds are planted. Everything must be removed to a dark, warm place and checked daily for seedlings. Basically, pelargoniums emerge in 5-6 days.

After at least one sprout appears, the entire container is exposed to the light, and the bag is removed. When the seedlings grow up and have four leaves, they can be planted in separate pots (this operation is called picking).

Growing a rooted cuttings and a well-developed bush

Here everything will be based on the selection of a pot and soil for transplanting the acquired seedling. Ready-made soil can be bought in a specialized store, or you can make it yourself if there is land at home brought from the garden in the fall. To do this, you just need to mix:

• upper light peat,
• land,
• sand,
• vermiculite.

The soil compiled in this way will be loose. The selection of the pot is made depending on the condition of the root system of the seedling.

Even for an adult bush, a small pot with a diameter of about 15 cm is suitable. Of course, it is recommended to purchase a pot of baked clay, but they are usually more expensive than plastic ones.

Therefore, if you don’t want extra costs, then the plastic one is not so bad either, it’s just that the water doesn’t dry out so quickly, and there is a risk of “flooding” the plant.

It is imperative that in order to prevent root rot and black legs, it is necessary to provide high-quality drainage in the pot, covered with a layer of 2-3 cm. What can we say, the pot itself must have at least one drain hole at the bottom.

geranium cuttings in peat tablets

Pelargonium care

As mentioned at the very beginning of the article, geraniums are very undemanding to care for, for which flower growers love it. Withdrawal is the fulfillment of the following conditions:

Watering

It all depends on the rate of drying of the top layer of the earth. Geranium tolerates drought much better than excessive moisture, so it is important not to "flood" it, otherwise the death of the bush will not be avoided.

Watering is usually done about three times a week. By the way, it must be produced carefully, trying not to get on the leaves of the plant itself. Spraying geraniums is also undesirable.

Pick-up location

Geranium is very photophilous, therefore its flowering directly depends on the amount of sunlight that it receives. Southern well-lit windows are suitable for growing pelargonium.

Indoor temperature

This factor in summer time not particularly important. In winter, the temperature should not drop below 10 0 C. The main thing is to protect the plant from drafts.

Loosening

It is recommended to carry out this operation periodically so that the air flows to the roots, and the earth does not turn into one monolithic piece. In order to loosen the ground, it is not at all necessary to have a special rake: you can use an old fork or stick.

Top dressing

Geraniums are fed during flowering and before flowering with phosphorus-containing fertilizers. In no case should you make organic fertilizers, geraniums simply cannot stand them.

Bush formation

It means rejuvenating pruning of an adult plant and formation of young stock. In the first case, up to five buds are left on each shoot, of which new branches will appear in the future.

In the second case, the technique of pinching the tops with the fingers is used for better tillering. All these operations are recommended to be carried out in late winter - early spring.

Transfer

It is carried out not annually, but every 2-3 years. It is best to transplant with a lump of earth, without exposing the roots.

Usually this operation is performed when indoor pelargonium noticeably slows down development. But that doesn't mean the new pot has to be huge. You can increase its diameter by the thickness of your index finger.

Reproduction of room geranium

To preserve the characteristic features of the variety, geraniums are usually propagated by cuttings or by dividing an adult bush.

Seeds

If you collect seeds with your own hands, then there is no guarantee of preserving the variety. If you want to try planting harvested seeds, then you need to carry out scarification, i.e. removal of the outer shell. The seeds are ground between two pieces of sandpaper.

Cuttings

Cut cuttings about 6 cm long are placed in water until young white roots germinate and then planted in the ground or germinated in coarse wet sand. Both methods are effective and widely used.

Bloom

Geranium blooms after planting with seeds in about five months, so if they are planted at the end of February, then pelargonium will bloom in the same year.

The stalk will bloom earlier - in three months. However, these dates refer mainly to zonal species, Angels and Royal Pelargoniums will bloom in any case only in the second year.

Diseases and pests of pelargonium

The most common diseases of geranium in indoor conditions include fungal and viral diseases. Fungal includes black leg, leaf rust, various kinds of rot. Most often, these diseases are treated with fungicide solutions.

Geranium pests are few, but they are already very annoying. These include aphids, whiteflies, caterpillars, and ticks. They themselves or traces of their vital activity can be found by careful examination of the leaves of the plant on both sides.

You can get rid of pests by spraying geraniums special means... If it was not possible to establish who exactly settled on the flower, then it is better to use a drug from a complex of pests.

Why do the leaves turn yellow?

Inexperienced growers can often face the following problems when growing geraniums: the leaves turn yellow, fall off, and the bush itself does not want to bloom at all.

This is most likely the result of improper care.

• If the leaf turns yellow around the edge, it means that the bush is receiving little water.
• If the leaves are lethargic and fallen, then the bush is flooded.
• If the leaves fall from the bottom of the plant, then the geranium does not have enough sunlight. By the way, for the same reason, it may not bloom.
• Also, geraniums will not want to release flower stalks if they overfeed it with nitrogen, which serves to gain green mass by the plant.

In order not to end at such an unpleasant moment as problems in growing pelargonium, you can talk about its beneficial properties.

Useful properties of geranium

• Firstly, this plant perfectly cleans the indoor air from harmful microbes. The smell of geranium relieves stress, relieves depression.
• Secondly, it repels pests from other flowers and plants. In the summer, it is recommended to take geraniums out into the garden, under the currant bushes - so that there are no aphids!
• And thirdly, geranium is widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases. It is compared to the plantain! Fresh leaves are great for healing wounds and treating abscesses. The broth helps with diseases of the intestines and stomach.
• Also get from geranium essential oil with a delicate aroma, which is used for medicinal purposes. It cures runny nose, ear pains, relieves muscle fatigue, back pain.

Video about growing pelargonium - geranium

Here is such a useful and beautiful plant- pelargonium or indoor geranium. Grow on windowsills, and now you know how to care.

Pelargonium is the same geranium known to everyone. That is why some people breed pelargonium at home, without even knowing what it really is. The name of the flower is translated from Greek as "crane". It became popular in England in the 19th century and has since spread throughout the rest of the world. Geranium is graceful and beautiful, and caring for it is as simple as possible, even for inexperienced flower growers. Another feature is a pronounced smell due to the high content of essential oils. For the same reason, pelargonium is often used in traditional medicine. At the dacha, it allows you to get rid of some garden pests by its mere presence.

General characteristics

Pelargonium is a perennial herbaceous plant, which belongs to the Geraniev family. Sometimes there are also semi-shrub varieties. Due to the diversity of species, it is almost impossible to distinguish common features characteristic of all representatives. Stems can be creeping, straight or branched, leaves - simple, dissected or finger-like, flowers in umbrella-shaped inflorescences - of all sizes, shapes and shades.

Pelargonium comes from South Africa, so it reproduces well in greenhouses, loves the sun and copes with lack of moisture. For the same reason, it will not survive the cold winter outdoors. For propagation, cuttings and seeds are used.

Geranium essential oil is made from the leaves of pelargonium. The root extract is used to make medical supplies, in particular, for the treatment of infectious diseases. Some varieties are toxic to pollinating insects due to the presence of quisgalic acid in the composition.

Pelargonium - universal plant, which is planted on the site, in flower beds and in the house.

Pelargonium species

There are many types of pelargonium in nature, which makes it impossible to create a single and universal classification. Most often, there are six main categories: zonal, ivy, scented, royal, unique and pelargonium-angels. They differ in appearance, habitat and living conditions.

Zone Pelargonium

It is the most common species, with tens of thousands of varieties. It owes its name to a certain color of the leaf: in the center there is an area painted in a different color. Sometimes this zone disappears when there is a lack of lighting, and in the spring it reappears.

Zonal pelargonium is a straight bushy bush with downy, fragrant leaves. It has been cultivated for more than three centuries. All varieties are divided into 5-petal non-double, 6-8-petal semi-double and 8-petal double.

The most famous and large subgroups are Rosaceae, Tulip, Clove, Star, Cactus and Deacons.

Ivy-leaved pelargonium

They are distinguished by creeping or hanging long shoots up to a meter. Such varieties are used for soil cover, when decorating balconies and loggias. Flowers are of any shape and shade, but the leaves are smooth and ivy-like, mostly dense and tough.

Scented pelargonium

This is a group of varieties known for their aromas. Most often they are quite inconspicuous in appearance, with small pink or white flowers and uneven palmate-lobed leaves. Bushes are loose and branched. Such geraniums are grown not for decoration, but for smell. The leaves can smell like fruits, berries, other herbs, and even complex fragrances.

Royal Pelargonium

These are powerful shrubs up to 50 cm tall. Their peculiarity is large flowers with corrugated or fringed edges. Coloring - heterogeneous due to veins and spotting. The leaves are broad and jagged, reminiscent of maple leaves. Unlike zonal, which can bloom all year round, flowering of royal pelargoniums is limited to 3-4 months.

Unique

This is one of the oldest groups that has been cultivated since the middle of the 18th century. They bred it by crossing the royal and brilliant geraniums. Flowers resemble royal flowers, but they are smaller in diameter. The dissected leaves have a pronounced odor. "Unicums" were especially popular in flower gardens during the Victorian era.

An unusual variety was bred by the English florist Langley Smith, who crossed the royal and curly pelargoniums. New species later appeared due to crosses within the group itself.

"Angels" are distinguished by small flowers, leaves and ampelous bushes. These varieties are less demanding than king geraniums, but they need more light.

Pelargonium is one of the most unpretentious ornamental plants... But in order for it to bloom beautifully and brightly, you still have to take care of proper care.

In the house, geraniums are placed on a sunny windowsill. Ideally - with a midday shade, so that it does not fade. She loves light and the south side, but disgustingly tolerates wind and drafts. The first signal of a lack of lighting is the gradual exposure of the stem.

The optimum temperature is above + 12C, otherwise the flower will not bloom. If the plant is too cold, the edges of the leaves change color. This is most often manifested in winter. Then it is better to remove the flowerpot from the window.

Watering is moderate. Due to excess moisture, pelargonium withers and rots, its root system is damaged. It is almost impossible to save such a plant, except to propagate the preserved healthy branches.

In order for the geranium to bush well, in the fall it is cut off and a squat crown is formed. You can do this in early spring, but then only cut off the tips of the longest shoots.

For the summer, geraniums can be planted in open ground... Then propagate the plant in the pre-winter, and in the spring just transplant it into the soil. With the onset of frost, the geraniums need to be transplanted back into the pots in order to preserve.

Transplantation and reproduction of pelargonium

The beautiful appearance of pelargonium and its regular flowering depends not only on watering and feeding, but also on regular pruning. At the same time, a new plant can be grown from the cuttings obtained.

It is recommended to carry out cuttings no more than once every two years, so that the geranium has time to grow and develop. If the bush is small and weak, then every three years. Cuttings are cut at any time, including winter. If you do this in early spring, you can already see the first flowers in the summer.

Spring is ideal for reproduction also because at this time all the processes of growth and development are especially intense, which means that the cutting takes root faster and stronger. But this is only a recommendation, not a mandatory rule. Pelargonium tolerates cuttings well in any season. Unless you will be able to admire the first results as early as next year.

To propagate pelargonium by cuttings, you need to take into account the following nuances:

- For dwarf varieties, the length of the cutting is up to 2.5 cm, for ordinary varieties - 5 cm;

- Shoots can be rooted in water or in the ground. For reliability, use the special rooting enhancers that are used for processing the slices, but this is not necessary;

- For planting, you will need pots with pallets, a suitable soil mixture and sand;

- Choose a top with three or more leaves;

- It is better not to cut branches with buds set. If there are buds, it is advisable to remove them so that they do not drag resources onto themselves. A young plant will not let them open anyway;

- Cut off the layers only with a sharpened knife at right angles. Cut cuttings need to be dried for several hours so that the cut is tightened with a film. In the future, this will protect against decay;

- Cuttings are planted in drained pots with holes. About a third of the sand is added to the soil;

- To disinfect the soil, it is enough to treat it with boiling water or a weak solution of potassium permanganate;

- Cuttings go deep into the ground a few centimeters. The ground needs to be slightly compacted so that the shoots do not fall;

- Keep the pots in the shade for the first days, but by the end of the week they can be transferred to the sun and watered abundantly. Pour water not into the ground, but into the pan;

- Try not to get the pelargonium leaves wet. Because of this, they can become stained or even rot;

- The average duration of the shoots rooting process is 2–6 weeks, depending on the geranium variety;

- If you have chosen to root the cuttings in water, put them in previously settled water. You can transplant the stems when the roots grow more than 2.5 cm. Plant pelargonium as delicately as possible so as not to damage the rhizome.

Pest and disease control

The most common disease of pelargonium is rotting of the root collar. This can only be prevented by careful control of watering and soil moisture.

If grayish mold appears on the leaves, you can still save the plant. Stop watering, remove damaged fragments and dry the soil. Treat the geraniums with fungus remover and leave them in the sun.

Pelargonium (geranium) - photo

We have selected the best selection of photos for you to understand what pelargonium looks like and what its features are. See, compare and choose new favorites for your home green corner or garden seedlings!

In nature, there are more than two hundred species of geraniums. Thanks to selection, many varieties have been bred that can satisfy the taste of even the most demanding grower. Geraniums today decorate houses, balconies, gazebos and terraces, gardens. Many varieties are decorative not only in color, but also in foliage.

Zonal pelargonium is the most abundant geranium species. Indoor zonal geraniums have a straight, strong stem with lush foliage. The leaves of these plants are often bordered with a reddish stripe, emitting an aroma. The name of the variety comes from the spots on the leaves of geranium, the spots on the leaf plates are randomly located, irregular and unequal in shape. The sheet plates are covered with pile, velvety to the touch. Zonal pelargonium is represented by many tall and miniature plants, differing in the shape of the leaves, the shape of flowers and their color. Geranium is zonal, all types and varieties are well grown and differ abundant flowering. One of the most popular varieties in cultivation is Happy Thought. The plant has variegated juicy green leaves, in the center sheet plate irregular shape a spot of bright yellow color. The petals of an ordinary flower are bright scarlet. Unusual Blue Geranium: The five-petalled Blue Blood flower is violet in color, the petals are literally laced with red-burgundy veins.

Important! When feeding domestic plants with purchased fertilizers, pay attention to the composition and amount of nitrogen in it. An excess of this element stimulates the growth of foliage in geraniums to the detriment of flowering.

Zonal pelargonium clove

A popular variety among flower growers. The flowers of this pelargonium resemble carnations, the same carved, fluffy petals. Clove pelargonium has a wide range of colors - from pastel tones to bright carmine, from pale pink to lilac, there are two-color petals. The following varieties are popular in home cultivation:

• Pat hannam- the color of the petals - from pale pink to rich lilac;
• Graffiti violet- lilac-purple flowers;
• Freshwater- soft pink petals.

Zonal pelargonium stellate

This variety of room geranium is distinguished by an unusual shape of leaves and petals: the edge of the leaves seems to be written out with clear large teeth. The petals are large with ragged edges, the lower petals in some varieties are distinguished by two sharp tips. The first to start breeding Star Pelargonium were the Australians. Several interesting varieties:

• Peppermint star- pale petals closer to the center, crimson at the tips;
• Star flair- against a bright crimson background, a white spot is clearly distinguished at the base of the petal, the shape of the petals is narrow;
• Swiss star- two-tone, against a pale lilac background, bright coral-colored stripes are visible along the petal.

Did you know? Geranium was revered in family magic: girls wore incense with oil or flower petals, attracting the groom, married women believed that geranium protects their family and prolongs their youth and attractiveness to their husband.

Zonal pelargonium cactus

Pelargonium cactus looks like a rash: it has large flowers with very narrow, sometimes needle-like petals. These plants became popular in late XIX century. Popular varieties:

• Fascination- carmine-colored petals, long, nail-like, the edges of the petal are tucked down, which gives the shape more pointed;
• Noel- the petals are white, twisted, bright pink anthers rise above the stamen.

Zonal pelargonium non-double, or simple

Pelargonium non-double has simple flowers, five semicircular petals, flowers can be both large and small. The brightest varieties:

• Moulin Rouge- bright red geranium, large spherical inflorescences formed by small flowers up to 15 pieces;
• Santa maria- carmine petals, from eight to twelve flowers in a round inflorescence;
• Happy оf New Life- bicolor, irregular spots of white and coral, scattered on the petals chaotically, clear veins are visible on a white background.

Zonal pelargonium semi-double

Indoor semi-double geranium is a little more luxuriant than simple, it has up to eight petals, a large color palette. In demand in indoor growing varieties:

• Peppermint twist- variegated raspberry-white pelargonium with a red stripe;
• Georgia peach- bright yellow flowers with rounded petals;
• Calais- pale pink main background, in the middle a coral-colored petal.

Terry zonal pelargonium

Terry pelargoniums are distinguished by a large number of delicate petals and seem fluffy due to the lighter underside of the petal. Flowers are collected in dense rounded hats. The homeland of room pelargonium is South Africa, the plant is accustomed to warmth and lighting, if it does not have enough light, provide additional lighting, otherwise the flowers will be faded. Interesting varieties:

• Pebbles- crimson petals with a light almost white center, miniature variety;
• Shelk Moiraс- Densely double flower of a pale coral tone, bright green foliage;
• Brookside fantasy- two-color petals: a strip of a darker color stands out against a lilac background.

Zonal pelargonium rosaceae

Geranium with double flowers similar to miniature roses. A large number of petals, tightly adjacent to each other, are collected in a stuffed bud. Numerous buds form a dense ball of inflorescence. Rosaceous pelargoniums are distinguished by a variety of tones. The most popular of the varieties:

• Apple blossom- white petals with pale pink tips are collected around the pale green stamen;
• Magda- lush buds of carmine tone, with a lighter underside of the petal.

Zonal pelargonium tulip

The flowers of the tulip geranium look like an unblown tulip. Simple non-double petals are tightly collected in buds, which, in turn, form lush inflorescences-bouquets.

The tulip-shaped pelargonium variety was bred by American breeders from Boston, Massachusetts. One of the parents of the new variety was the Fiat Pelargonium variety.

Popular varieties:

• Red pandora- bright carmine buds, veins of the same color are clearly visible on the petals, but half a tone darker;
• Patricia andrea- bright dark pink buds, the variety has large carved leaves;
• Linea Andrea- attracts attention with a pedicel, pubescent with rigid bristles, holding lilac large bud.

Zone Pelargonium Deacon

Deacons are miniature plants, compact in shape. This species is distinguished by lush and abundant flowering. The color of the petals is pink, red and orange. The variety was first introduced in 1970 in the city of Chelsea at a flower fair. The author of the variety of this pelargonium, Stanley Stringer, indicated in the description the parent varieties: the zonal variety Orion and the ivy-leaved Pelargonium Blue Peter. The most unusual variety - Deakon Birthday, petal color - creamy pink with a coral center.

Pelargonium royal

Royal pelargonium is called the most attractive species, its height is from 16 to 40 cm and about 16 cm in diameter. Pelargonium has a wide variety of color shades from white to dark purple. Flowers can be simple and double, the petals are wavy or corrugated, they are distinguished by blotches in the form of spots or stripes on the main background of the flower. The uppermost petals are velvety to the touch and larger than the rest. The royal variety is the most capricious of all, requiring increased attention when growing. Common varieties of royal pelargonium:

• Ann hoystead- high up to 40 cm, large flowers, dark red petals with large dark spots;
• Askham Fringed Aztec- 30 cm in height, terry white geranium, with stripes of bright blueberry color along the petal;
• Black prince- 40-centimeter beauty, thick plum shade, with a thin silvery stripe along the edge of the petal.

Interesting fact! White geranium is considered a symbol of procreation, so it is customary to give it to couples who do not have children. White geranium is also considered a talisman against ruin.

Pelargonium fragrant

This variety of geranium is called fragrant because of its pleasant subtle aroma, it is enough to press a leaf of the plant with your fingers, and a delicate smell will fill the space around. The aroma of the flower combines the smells inherent in other plants: mint, ginger, lemon and others. Hybrids have been bred that smell of exotic fruits and spices: pineapple, nutmeg, kiwi. Flowers of this species are small, pink and purple shades of petals predominate. Beautifully carved leaves of the plant, seemingly terry.

The following varieties are considered in demand:

• - up to 30 cm in height and 16 cm in diameter, the leaves are divided into three parts in the shape of a lobe, bordered with denticles, white petals with red dots on the upper petals, pine aroma with a slight tinge of camphor;
• Ardwick cinnamon- not large dark leaves Green colour, velvety to the touch, white flowers, crimson spots on the upper petals, smells of cinnamon.

Pelargonium ivy, or ampelous

Pelargonium ivy is named so for the similarity of the shape of the leaves with ivy foliage, the plant is herbaceous, the branches grow up to a meter long. Most often used in decorating loggias, outdoor terraces in hanging pots. Various colors - from snow-white to dark blue. Flowers of ampelous pelargonium are large, up to 5 cm in diameter, round in shape, can be double, semi-double and simple. The most beautiful varieties.

Undemanding to care, blooming for several months and such bright pelargoniums, due to their similarity, are often called geraniums. But nevertheless, this is a separate numerous genus, and photos of species and varieties of room geraniums will help to understand the existing variety of these amazing plants originally from South Africa.

Such different indoor geraniums

Indoor geraniums growing on window sills, on loggias and balconies, as in the photo, can look like herbaceous or semi-shrub plants with erect or falling stems. All geraniums are distinguished by the highest decorativeness. Attention is drawn not only to simple or double flowers of all shapes and colors, but also to the unique leaves of the plant.

They can be wide, almost rounded, figuratively cut, finger-like, smooth corrugated, green and variegated.

The long-standing fame of indoor geraniums as spectacular and unpretentious plants has led to the fact that for the last hundred years:

• a great variety of varietal forms of pelargonium were obtained;
• wild species have been discovered and cultivated;
• interspecific hybrids appeared.

Therefore, the modern classification of the genus presents to plant lovers about 250 independent species, and the gradation of varieties of indoor plants, adopted in the international community of florists, suggests using their designations based on outward signs, as in the photo, varieties and types of room geranium:

• Stellar - star-shaped indoor geraniums, their varieties and hybrids;
• Tulip - tulip-shaped pelargoniums;
• Unique - indoor geraniums are unique;
• Zonal are zoned or edged domestic varieties of pelargonium.
• Angel - indoor geraniums are angels;
• Colored Foliage - variegated varieties;
• Cactus - cactus pelargonium;
• Ivy-leaved - ivy geraniums that can be standard sizes as well as dwarfs and miniatures;
• Miniature and Dwarf - miniature and dwarf indoor pelargonium plants;
• Regal - royal geraniums
• Scented-leaved - scented geraniums.

Pelargonium zoned or bordered (Pelargonium zonale)

All kinds of hybrids and varieties of this type of room geranium, as in the photo, grow well in the house, on balconies and even on city flower beds. This is the undoubted leader in popularity and the number of cultivated varieties, of which today there are about 75 thousand.

Among other domestic perennial geraniums, zonal plants are easily recognized by their characteristic foliage coloration. Against a bright green background, darker areas are clearly visible, which gave the name to the whole type of indoor geraniums, as in the photo. The flowers of the zonal pelargonium can be either simple or double.

When describing geranium varieties, in the photo, and in the names of plants, the following gradation is used according to the number of petals in the corolla:

• non-double flowers have five petals - Single;
• semi-double flowers include 6 to 9 petals and are designated Semi-Double;
• double geranium flowers consist of 8 or more petals - Double.

Terry varieties are sometimes called peony geraniums, which is somewhat incorrect. There is no such group of plants in the internationally recognized classification.

The flowers of the zonal geranium differ not only in splendor and size. Long gone are the days when only red geraniums flaunted on the windows.

Depending on the variety and variety, pelargonium pleases the eye with umbrella inflorescences of all shades of pink, cream, burgundy or crimson. Plants with white, multicolored and even yellow corollas are not uncommon, as in the photo of a geranium variety called First Yellow Improved.

But that's not all strengths room geranium. Varieties with a flower shape uncharacteristic for the species are of particular attention to florists.

Rosaceae (Rose-bud Zonal pelargoniums)

An example is the pink geranium, as in the photo, with spectacular double flowers, which in structure and appearance resemble miniature English roses.

This variety of indoor geranium, its name and photos of flowers have been known in the world since the century before last. The first information on plants was published in the Royal Horticultural Society of Britain Herald in 1876. But in our country, rosaceous varieties have not yet become widespread and are found only in the collections of the most enthusiastic florists.

Tulip indoor geraniums (Tulipe-bud pelargonium)

A century later, flower growers received home geranium plants with flowers that, even at the time of full bloom, do not open, remaining in the bud stage.

As a result, this indoor geranium, shown in the photo, was called tulip-shaped. The origin of the variety was given by a spontaneous mutation, and the few varieties and hybrids of tulip geranium that exist today, when grown or multiplied, sometimes try to return to their natural form.

Stellar indoor geraniums (Stellar Zonal Pelargonium)

In the middle of the last century, flower growers in Australia managed to get indoor geraniums, which have an original corolla shape, not similar to the varieties that existed before.

Because of the acute-angled narrowed petals, indoor geranium, in the photo, was called star-shaped.

Currently, varieties and hybrids are at the disposal of flower growers not only with simple and double flowers of all shades, but also star-shaped pelargoniums with bright multicolored foliage.

Cactus indoor geraniums (Cactus Pelargonium)

Cactus geraniums obtained at the turn of the 20th century are extremely rare today. A characteristic feature of these plants is large flowers with narrowed, sometimes needle-like petals, giving the corolla a scruffy, disheveled look.

Carnation Pelargonium (Carnation Pelargonium)

Indoor geraniums, in the photo, amaze with a variety of flowers, colors and species. One of the most unusual is the carnation variety of zoned pelargonium, with serrated petals that resemble carnation flowers.

Ivy-leaved Pelargonium

Most of the ampelous varieties of indoor geranium, as in the photo, belong to the vast group of pelargoniums and leaves that resemble dense green ivy foliage. Because of this similarity, numerous varieties with simple and large double flowers are called ivy.

Trumpet geraniums, as in the photo, are plants with creeping or creeping stems reaching a meter in length. In culture, such varieties are indispensable for vertical gardening and for decorating hanging baskets. Indoor pelargoniums are also used as ground cover plants.

The leaves of the ampelous geranium are dense, leathery, in contrast to the zonal variety, completely smooth.

The variegated forms of ivy geraniums, as in the photo, are very interesting.

Royal Pelargonium

Many indoor geraniums have been obtained as a result of selection work and hybridization between species. Thanks to such efforts, royal pelargoniums appeared with flowers up to 7 cm in diameter.

The peculiarity of these varieties and hybrids lies not only in the size of simple and semi-double corollas, but also in their multicolored color. The petals must have spots, streaks or specks of contrasting tones.

Pelargonium Angels (Angel Pelargonium)

Pelargonium Angels in appearance resemble plants of the "royal" variety. But the flowers here are somewhat smaller, and the existing varieties were obtained from crossing with large-flowered.

Angels are mainly ampelous geraniums, as in the photo, forming a lush crown of shoots with medium-sized monophonic foliage.

Unique Pelargonium

Hybrid plants obtained from and brilliant, began to be called unique. This group belongs to the oldest varieties, although it is not so easy to find plants in the collections of florists.

Although the flowers of this variety, as in the photo of the room geranium, look like the flowers of royal plants, they are much smaller. But the foliage is often dissected, corrugated, and also has a pleasant smell.

For example, the greens in the pictured geranium called Paton's Unique have a sweet, fruity aroma.

Scented-leaved Pelargonium

It was the smell of crushed geranium leaves that attracted a person's attention to this plant. Until the century before last, the main focus in the selection of indoor geraniums was not the beauty of the flowers, but the aroma, because the plants served as "living deodorants".

Similar varieties and hybrids of scented geranium are popular today. They will not amaze with bright flowering or the shape of inflorescences, but they are also used for flavoring culinary dishes and for household fragrances when storing bed linen or outerwear.

Depending on the type and variety, as in the photo, room geranium, its leaves can smell of all kinds of fruits, mint and roses, nutmeg, carrots or needles.

Video about the features of fragrant geranium

Geranium is a flower with minimal care. From the Greek language "geranion" or "geranios" is translated as a crane. This is explained by the shape of the inflorescences, they are similar to the beak of a crane. In total, more than 300 species are known that grow on forest edges, meadows and even in the mountains. On the territory of Russia, you can find about 40 species with a height of 15 to 60 cm and more.

There is a frequent mistake in the names. Often called geraniums houseplants, which has taken root well in the houses of Russian housewives. This article discusses the garden geranium plant.

What are the varieties of geranium

The difference between this species and others is the rhizome weaving along the ground. It quickly takes root, grows together into a large closed thicket 30 cm in height. The shrub is not picky about care. The leaves are long and rounded, divided into 5-7 teeth. Flowering time in June 2-3 weeks. You can collect seeds of this type in August. The plant is very aromatic. In its unchanged form with bright green leaves, it can go into winter. Prefers a dry and bright place.
Balkan geranium (large rhizome): photo

Popular varieties: Spessagt, Ingwersen's Variety, Insversen, Czakor, Variegata.

Marsh geranium

Inhabits darkened meadows. Blooms in June - July. Flowers of a bright purple shade, 2 per peduncle. In August, the flowers fall off and are replaced by bright greenish large leaves. In August, this species provides itself with self-sowing by scattering seeds. Growth in high humidity.

Geranium gorgeous (lush)

The fruit of the work of breeders. Suitable for sunny and humid places. The bush grows rapidly, its height is up to 50 cm. Flowering in July. By autumn, the shrub is covered with red and orange leaves. The difference from other varieties is that it does not scatter seeds. Landscape designers use it as a single-planter on lawns.
Gorgeous geranium (lush): photo Popular varieties: "Alan Mayes", "Blue Blood", "Mrs. Kendall Clark "," Rosemoor ".

Geranium Vlasova

It grows in Siberia, Mongolia, China, mainly on damp meadows with moist soil, along rivers and swamps. The stems are long and branching. Shrub up to 65 cm in height. The inflorescences are dense, large.

Geranium hairy

Grows in Siberia, East Asia, on Far East... Prefers shady woodland and bushes. The stems are erect, the roots are branching. Flowers are not tall, straight stems. The petals are wide, reddish-purple in color.

Hairy geranium

Grows in Eastern Siberia, the Arctic, the Far East. Prefers to grow in meadows and rocks, on slopes. The plant is up to 70 cm high. The leaves are few. The flowers are not large, but there are five inflorescences per stem. Large "beak" of a plant up to three cm long. Flowering in May-June. Seeds are discarded in August.

Himalayan geranium or large-flowered

Grows in Himalayan meadows. The species is little known in Russia. Dense bush up to 60 cm high.Differs from other species, rather large flowers, up to 10 cm in diameter. The "beak" is long ̶ 4 cm. The flowers are mostly bluish and purple. Blooms in May and blooms throughout the summer.
Himalayan geranium: photo Popular varieties: "Gravetye", "Jonson" s Вluе "," Plenum ".

Geranium geranium

It grows in the Caucasus and Georgia. The variety is distinguished by long flowering, disease resistance and, of course, beauty. The view is considered the most original. Long-term plant - can do without transplanting 10-12 years, forming a dense bush up to 80 cm high. It blooms from late May to October (after frost). The leaves are gray, turn red by autumn.

Geranium blood red

It grows in the Caucasus and southern Europe. It takes root well in gardens middle lane Russia. Reproduces by self-sowing. Bloom from June to August. Bush up to 60 cm tall. The name of the species comes from its leaves: in autumn and winter, they change their color to red. It can live up to 15 years without a transplant.
Popular varieties: Album, Compactum, Nana, Prostratum, Striatum.

Forest geranium

Grows in forests Western Europe, in Asia and Eastern Russia. Sparse shrub up to 80 cm tall. Grows in moist, loose soil. Blooming in May. The color of the flowers is lilac.

Popular varieties: Album, Birch Lilac, Mayflower.

Meadow geranium

Grows in Europe. This type of geranium is the tallest - up to 120 cm in height. Blooms from late April to August. When transplanted, flowering begins in the second year.
Meadow geranium: photo Popular varieties: "Splish Splash", "Mrs. Kendall, Flore Pleno, Okey Dokey, Summer Skies.

Geranium multicolored, striped

Shrubs grow in European countries. Blooms in June - July. The plant is frost-resistant (up to minus 23 degrees). Dense bush up to 50 cm in height.

Plant care secrets

If you choose low damp place- the flowering of the plant is not worth waiting for. Rot will begin to develop at the roots of the flower, the leaves will immediately turn red, yellow and then dry out. The secret of leaving the edge lies in the landing site - the land must be treated with fertilizer, the landing site must be on a hillock.

Watering should be correct: do not dry out, but water in moderation. Pour water about 1 - 2 times a week under the bush, and not on the leaves, so as not to soak the beautiful inflorescences. The flower loves feeding - dilute 1 tbsp into 10 liters of water. l. agriculture for flowering plants, 2 tbsp. (Master, Uniflor, Fertika Lux and others) and pour under the roots.

Another cultivation secret is that you cannot water the flower in solar time... The plant loves watering in the morning to avoid root rot.

The main pest that loves geraniums is the whitefly. Based on this, you should take peat soil and mix it with garden chernozem. Among other things, treat the bush with "Commander" (dilute 2 ml in 7 liters of water).

The nuances of reproduction of different varieties

Geranium propagation can be divided into 2 ways: by seed and cuttings. Let's consider them.

When breeding geraniums seeds, it is not always possible to keep the variety, it can develop into a hybrid. Some types of flower do not give seeds, but are self-sowing. Basically, geranium seeds are harvested in August. A plant planted in this way will bloom the next year.

Cuttings guarantees fast rooting of geraniums. Propagated by this method should be in the spring. Part of the bush is planted in a mixture of peat, sand, humus and earth. Be sure to feed the cutting for rooting and water it abundantly.