When you first try the term geranium , you may picture those vivacious , round flowers adorning garden and balconies in the summertime . But did you know that there ’s more to the story when it comes to geraniums ? In fact , the answer to the question , “ Is geranium a perennial ? ” is not as square as it may seem at first glance .
Plants that are commonly refer to as geranium in reality belong to to two distinct botanical grouping , each with its own set of characteristics and grow formula . The true geraniums , often known as cranesbills , are classified as perennial plants , meaning they have a sprightliness cycle that extends beyond a individual turn season .
Perennial geraniums are known for their seniority , with the power to hail back year after year , append beauty and color to gardens with their delicate peak and textured foliage . These plants are beloved by many gardeners for their reliability and resiliency , making them a popular alternative for landscapes that need low - maintenance works .

In direct contrast , the geraniums that are usually sold as bedding plants or yearbook are in reality members of the Pelargonium genus . These plant , with their characteristic lollipop - like flower on tall stems , are often grown as seasonal decorations and are not truthful geranium in the botanic sense . These yearly geraniums thrive in the warm summer calendar month but do not survive beyond a individual growing season .
Despite the mix-up in nomenclature , it is essential to differentiate between true geraniums and the Pelargoniums when consider whether geraniums are perennial . While true geraniums are indeed perennial , the more widely recognized annual geranium are not sort as such due to their confine lifetime .
For gardeners looking to comprise geraniums into their landscape painting , understand the distinction between recurrent and yearly potpourri is important for proper industrial plant tending and alimony . Perennial geraniums will reelect year after yr , necessitate minimal aid once constitute , while the annual bedding geraniums will need to be replanted each season to maintain their vibrant presentation .
Choosing the ripe type of geranium for your garden will count on your mood , garden designing preferences , and upkeep goals . If you ’re look for a long - lasting plant that will provide beauty and color through multiple season , recurrent geraniums are an fantabulous pick . On the other handwriting , if you favor the instant gratification of bright blooms that can be easily swapped out each year , annual geranium may be the better choice .
irrespective of which type of geranium you select for your garden , both perennial and yearly miscellanea have their unparalleled good luck charm and charm . Whether you ’re drawn to the classic knockout of true geranium or the showy efflorescence of annual geraniums , incorporating these plants into your landscape can summate a touch of elegance and reverberance to your out-of-door space .
In decision , while geraniums embrace a diverse group of plant with varying lifetime , unfeigned geraniums are indeed perennial , while the more commonly recognized yearly geranium are not classified as such . By understanding the preeminence between these dissimilar types of geraniums , gardeners can make informed decisions when selecting plant life for their landscape , ensuring a beautiful and thriving garden for days to come .
Caroline Bates