About
Pelargonium papilionaceum, the butterfly geranium, is a tender perennial, vigorous species pelargonium with large, heart-shaped, scented green leaves and dainty pink to pale-pink, single flowers with darker pink blotches and three linear lower petals from spring to early autumn. A charming and rewarding species pelargonium for a frost-free, sunny garden or conservatory.
About the genus
Pelargonium are perennials, sub-shrubs and shrubs � sometimes succulent and mostly evergreen � with palmately lobed or pinnately divided leaves and clusters of slightly irregular, five-petalled flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, orange or white. Widely grown as houseplants, patio plants and bedding.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toTemp S Africa
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationWill grow well in a frost-free environment, in well-drained fertile neutral to alkaline soil, preferably in full sun but will tolerate some partial shade, in borders or containers. Irrigate moderately from spring to summer, and sparingly in winter allowing the compost to dry up between waterings. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season and switch to a high potassium fertilizer when flowering starts. Overwinter in containers before the first frost in autumn. See Pelargonium cultivation for further advice.
PruningPinch back tips of shoots in spring or early summer and deadhead to promote flowering.
PropagationPropagate from softwood cuttings from spring to autumn.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to Thrips, vine weevil, Leafhopper, Root mealybugs, Whitefly.
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Pelargonium rust, Pelargonium virus, Leafy gall.