Proudly South African
The genus Pelargonium consists of some 230 different species, many of which are of southern African origin. For the past three centuries they have been extensively bred, resulting in an array of flowering plants that are grown globally for their brightly coloured blooms borne over a long period. The common name ‘geranium’ causes some confusion in the plant world, but most gardeners use the term with familiarity and affection. Everybody knows a geranium but few realise that pelargonium is the correct name from a botanical point of view.
Classification
Despite the fact that there are so many different pelargoniums, those used in the garden are usually classified into four main groups depending on their lineage and growth habit. This makes it easy to identify the plants and to be able to grow them in the correct environment for them to perform successfully.
1. Ivy-leafed or trailing pelargoniums (Pelargonium peltatum)
Distinguishing characteristics include trailing stems with lobed leaves of firm waxy texture, almost succulent in appearance. Clusters of single or double flowers are produced on stems held above the foliage. Colours include white, pink, red, mauve and purple. Many bi-coloured hybrids are also available, mainly in red and white combinations.
2. Bush or zonal pelargoniums (Pelargonium zonale)
These are the most commonly cultivated pelargoniums of all and are often referred to as bush geraniums. Bushy shrubs with upright succulent stems, they have leaves that are rounded in shape and are green with a darker centre and a soft, velvety texture. Many variegated leaf forms can also be found. Flowers are single or double on stems above the foliage, and colours include white, red, scarlet, orange, pink and salmon.
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Denne historien er fra June 2017-utgaven av The Gardener.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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FIRE AND Feathers!
On a dreary winter's day, a screen of fiery and feathery leaves puts up a fight against dullness!
GET THE ladies in!
At this time of year, early-flowering shrubs vie with each other to get the most attention. We say: Trust those with female names for frills and butterflies. They go the extra mile to flower their hearts out.
Vegetable Soups and dumplings
Vegetables make the most delicious soups and classic combinations are always a winner.
Yummy sweet potatoes for your good health
Boiled, baked or braaied, sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are a delicious and healthy winter comfort food. Just a dollop of butter, a little seasoning and you are good to go.
Pretty and functional
If cooking is your main thing, you would probably be more interested in the culinary value of the three herbs and some of their varieties we are describing.
Dried Seedheads & Pods
Autumn and winter are the best times to see what flowers produce the best seedheads that can be left on the plants to feed the birds and bugs and for harvesting for dried arrangements.
SO MANY FACES and so many choices...
Whoever associated a Cotyledon orbiculata (pig's ear) with the ear of a pig obviously did not know about all the varieties and cultivars this species in the genus Cotyledon has.
COLOURFUL Cold Weather WINNERS!
If it comes to a vote, these dependable shrubs will be the top candidates for prime performance in winter and in other seasons...
What makes a garden sustainable?
It is interesting to note that the United Nations defines sustainable development as: “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.
Nurturing NATURE-The Story of Kraal Garden's Transformation
Nestled within Prince Albert's rustic embrace lies a gem that is a testament to the transformative power of human vision and nature's bounty.