Types of Geraniums: Learn Hardy, Zonal, Ivy and More
Types of Geraniums: Understanding Hardy, Zonal, Ivy, and Other Popular Types
Geraniums are among the most versatile garden plants, but the wide range of types of geraniums can make them confusing at first. When gardeners talk about geranium types, they may be referring to very different plants with unique growth habits, care needs, and uses, including hardy geranium cranesbill varieties, which are known for their durability and perennial nature.
This guide breaks down the most common geranium varieties so you can better understand how each fits into your garden.
Why There Are So Many Geranium Types
The term geranium is often used loosely. In reality, it includes two main groups:
- True geraniums, also known as cranesbill geranium
- Geranium pelargonium, which includes many popular bedding plants
These groups explain why there are so many geraniums types and different types of geranium plants available. Each group contains its own set of geranium plant types with distinct features.
Hardy Geraniums (Cranesbills)
Perennials for Long-Term Growth
Hardy geranium varieties are also called cranesbills and belong to the group of true geraniums. These are reliable perennials that return each year, making them a favorite for gardeners who want lasting structure.
These geranium types hardy thrive in drained soil and adapt well to full sun to partial shade. Their spreading growth habit makes them useful in borders and rock gardens.
Common features include:
- Soft, rounded green leaves
- Open flowers, often in pink flowers or white flowering tones
- A low, spreading form ideal for ground cover
Well-known cranesbill geranium varieties include the classic bloody cranesbill and modern selections like Rozanne.
These plants are part of a broader group of perennial geranium varieties that are easy to maintain and dependable across seasons.
Zonal Geraniums
The Most Common Garden Center Choice
Among the most recognizable different types of geraniums, zonal geraniums are widely used in containers and garden beds.
These belong to the pelargonium group and are often grown as annuals. They are known for:
- Upright growth
- Bold, colorful blooms
- Distinct patterns on their leaves, which help identify different types of geranium leaves
They perform best in sunny conditions and provide season long color during the warmer months.
Ivy Geraniums
Trailing Plants for Vertical Spaces
Ivy geraniums are another popular option within the pelargonium group. Their trailing stems make them ideal for hanging baskets and containers.
They feature:
- Glossy leaves
- Cascading growth
- Continuous flowering during the growing season
These plants are perfect if you want to add movement and softness to elevated displays.
Regal Geraniums (Martha Washington Types)
Bold Flowers with Shorter Bloom Time
Regal geraniums, also known as Martha Washington geraniums, stand out for their large, showy blooms.
They differ from other different geranium varieties by:
- Producing more dramatic flowers
- Blooming heavily in early summer
- Preferring cooler temperatures
While their flowering period is shorter, they offer striking color and detail.
Choosing the Right Geranium for Your Garden
With so many varieties of geranium plants, the best choice depends on your goals and space.
Choose hardy types if you want:
- Long-lasting perennial geranium varieties
- Plants for natural planting areas
- Low-maintenance ground cover
Choose pelargoniums if you want:
- Bright, seasonal color
- Plants for containers or hanging baskets
- A wide range of flower styles and colors
Understanding these different varieties of geraniums helps you select plants that match your climate and design.
Recommended Geranium Varieties to Try
If you want to explore dependable options, consider these well-known geranium plant varieties:
- Geranium (Rozanne Cranesbill) known for long bloom time and spreading growth
- Geranium maderense (Ginormous Geranium) for bold structure and height
- Geranium pyrenaicum (Bill Wallis Hedgerow Cranesbill) for natural-style planting
You can explore more geraniums varieties in this geranium collection to find the right fit for your garden.
Conclusion
There are many types of geranium plants, each suited to different uses and growing conditions. From hardy cranesbills to colorful pelargoniums, these plants offer flexibility for nearly any garden style.
By understanding the difference between geranium plant types and how they grow, you can choose plants that will thrive in your space. With the right selection, geraniums can provide lasting beauty from spring through fall.
