Geranium vs Pelargonium: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
The terms geranium and pelargonium are often used interchangeably, especially in the UK, but they actually refer to two different groups of plants. Understanding the difference between geranium vs pelargonium helps you choose the right plant for your garden, grow them correctly, and avoid confusion when buying plants.
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Geraniums (Pelargoniums) are classic, colourful garden and patio favourites that bloom all summer long with the right care.
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This article explains the key differences, how to identify each plant, where they grow best, and why the names are so often mixed up.
What Is a Geranium?
A true geranium belongs to the genus Geranium and is commonly known as a hardy geranium or cranesbill.
True geraniums are:
- Hardy perennials
- Able to survive winter outdoors in the UK
- Grown mainly in borders and woodland gardens
- Valued for long flowering periods and ground cover
They return year after year with very little maintenance.
What Is a Pelargonium?
A pelargonium belongs to the genus Pelargonium and is the plant most people think of when they say “geranium” in garden centres.
Pelargoniums are:
- Tender perennials
- Not frost hardy
- Usually grown as annuals in the UK
- Ideal for pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes
They must be protected from frost or overwintered indoors.
Why Are Pelargoniums Called Geraniums?
The confusion dates back to the 18th century.
- Pelargoniums were originally classified as geraniums
- Later reclassified into a separate genus (Pelargonium)
- The common name “geranium” stuck in everyday use
Garden centres still label pelargoniums as geraniums because the name is familiar to customers.
Geranium vs Pelargonium: Key Differences
Hardiness
Geranium
- Fully hardy
- Survives winter outdoors
Pelargonium
- Frost tender
- Needs winter protection
Growing Position
Geranium
- Borders and ground cover
- Woodland or mixed borders
Pelargonium
- Pots, baskets, containers
- Patios, balconies, windowsills
Flowers
Geranium
- Smaller, simpler flowers
- Often long flowering season
Pelargonium
- Larger, showier blooms
- Strong colours and patterns
Leaves
Geranium
- Soft, often deeply divided
- Usually not scented
Pelargonium
- Thicker leaves
- Often scented (rose, lemon, mint, etc.)
Petal Shape
A botanical difference that clearly separates them:
Geranium
- Five petals of equal size
Pelargonium
- Two upper petals different from the lower three
This is the easiest way to identify them when flowering.
Geraniums in the Garden
True geraniums are excellent for:
- Filling gaps in borders
- Suppressing weeds
- Pollinator-friendly planting
- Low-maintenance gardens
They spread gently and are ideal for naturalistic planting.
Pelargoniums in the Garden
Pelargoniums are perfect for:
- Bright summer displays
- Hanging baskets and railings
- Patio pots and containers
- Conservatories and greenhouses
They provide bold colour from late spring until autumn.
Do Geraniums and Pelargoniums Need Different Care?
Yes, their care requirements are very different.
Geranium Care
- Minimal feeding
- Occasional watering once established
- Cut back after flowering if needed
Pelargonium Care
- Regular watering in summer
- Weekly feeding for best flowering
- Deadheading to extend bloom
- Frost protection in winter
Treating a pelargonium like a hardy geranium usually leads to failure.
Can You Grow Them Together?
Yes, but usually in different settings.
- Geraniums thrive in borders
- Pelargoniums suit containers
They complement each other well when used correctly.
Common Mistakes
- Leaving pelargoniums outdoors over winter
- Assuming all “geraniums” are hardy
- Planting pelargoniums directly into borders
- Overfeeding hardy geraniums
Knowing the difference avoids these problems.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose geraniums if you want:
- A permanent, low-maintenance plant
- Year-after-year reliability
- Border and ground-cover planting
Choose pelargoniums if you want:
- Bright, bold summer colour
- Pots, baskets, and balcony displays
- Scented foliage options
Many gardeners grow both for different purposes.
Final Thoughts: Geranium vs Pelargonium
Geraniums and pelargoniums may share a common name in everyday language, but they are very different plants with different needs and uses. Geraniums are hardy, long-lived border plants, while pelargoniums are tender, vibrant container plants that shine in summer displays.
Understanding the difference between geranium vs pelargonium helps you buy the right plant, care for it properly, and get the best results in your garden.