Pelargonium peltatum Seeds
Ivy-leaved Pelargonium, Ivy-leaved Geranium, Cascading Geranium
Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants which includes about 200 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as geraniums or storksbills. Confusingly, Geranium is the correct botanical name of a separate genus of related plants often called Cranesbills. Both genera are in the Family Geraniaceae. Gardeners sometimes refer to the members of Genus Pelargonium as "pelargoniums" in order to avoid the confusion, but the older common name "geranium" is still in regular use. Other than grown for their beauty, species of Pelargonium such as P. graveolens are important in the perfume industry and are cultivated and distilled for its scent. Although scented Pelargonium exist which have smells of citrus, mint, or various fruits, the varieties with rose scents are most commercially important. Pelargonium distillates and absolutes, commonly known as "scented geranium oil" are sometimes used to supplement or adulterate expensive rose oils. The ivy-leaved pelargonium is a winner as a beautiful garden plant. Pelargonium peltatum is a climbing, semi-succulent perennial, trailing through other trees and shrubs in its habitat. The climber has long, straggling shoots, which can reach a height of 2 m. This plant is characterized by its ivy-shaped leaves. Some of the leaves have distinctive zonal markings, but this is not a common characteristic. It produces clusters of flowers varying from mauve or pinkish mauve to pale pink or white. It flowers mainly in September to December. The sour-tasting sap of the ivy-leaved pelargonium is used traditionally to treat sore throats. The buds and young leaves can be eaten and are thirst quenching. The leaves can be pounded and used as an antiseptic for scratches, wounds, grazes and minor burns. The petals are astringent, and can be used to make a wash for greasy skin. The petals can also be used to make a beautiful, long-lasting, grey-blue dye that can be used for painting or to dye wool or cloth. The plants have been used extensively in horticulture and thousands are grown each year for window boxes and other applications. The plants have been used extensively in horticulture and thousands are grown each year for window boxes and other applications.
