Introduction
If you’re like me, you probably think of geraniums as a type of flowering plant that’s commonly grown in gardens and flower pots. Maybe you even have one growing on your windowsill right now. But did you know that the name geranium actually means “crane’s bill”? If that interests you, keep reading!
Geraniums are a flowering plant and are typically grown as an annual.
That’s right, geraniums are a flowering plant and they’re typically grown as an annual.
But, what is a “flowering plant”? Well, in order to be considered a flowering plant, you need to have flowers (obviously) and those flowers must be bisexual—meaning that both male and female reproductive cells are present on the same flower. When these two structures fuse together during fertilization, you get seeds! Additionally, all flowering plants have vascular systems that transport water and nutrients throughout their bodies; this system includes xylem tissue for transporting water up from the roots through stems into leaves where photosynthesis occurs. A few examples of other types of vascular systems include: pithy centers found in succulents; cacti with spines along ribs; rose thorns growing off of branches; orchids with pseudobulbs (which store nutrients).
The leaves of the geranium are deeply lobed.
One of the most interesting things about geraniums is their leaves. The leaves are deeply divided, giving them a crinkled texture. They are dark green and glossy on top, with white undersides that shine in the sun. The leaves also have five lobes that form a symmetrical shape when viewed from above and grow opposite one another along the stem.
The geranium is also known as a crane’s bill.
The term “geranium” comes from the Greek word geranos, which means crane. In Greek mythology, cranes were said to be able to revive anyone who had been killed by the breath of a dragon or serpent.
The common name for geraniums is also “crane’s bill,” and this name is used for other plants that have similar flowers with long sharp petals. The botanical name for these plants is Pelargonium, which comes from the Greek word pelargos meaning stork. It’s believed that people started using storks (which were thought to be good luck) as models for their drawings of cranesbill flowers because they resembled them so much!
Some types of geraniums have a citrusy scent similiar to lemon or rosemary.
Some geraniums have a citrusy scent similar to lemon or rosemary. This scent is often described as “herbaceous.” It’s not always present, and it can be a bit overpowering for some people. If you’re interested in growing geraniums, look for the variety called apple scented geraniums if you want one with a milder smell.
Geraniums have edible flowers, but they’re quite bitter so stick to other plants for your next recipe.
- Eat the flowers? No, thanks. The leaves and stems are safe to eat, but the flowers are extremely bitter—often used as a flavoring for gin and vermouth.
- Geraniums aren’t just for looks! Their flowers can be used in cooking/salad greens.
- Other plants have edible flowers too: chives, dill weed (fresh or dried), lavender (flowers make great infusions), nasturtiums…
Geranium plants can handle a range of temperatures, but they’re not very cold-hardy. They won’t survive frost.
Geraniums are a warm-weather plant and can withstand temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit. But they aren’t very cold-hardy, so if you live in an area where winter temperatures dip below freezing, you’ll need to protect them from frost.
Grow them in pots or in the ground (they’re best suited for beds with well-drained soil). They prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
Geraniums prefer well-drained soil, and need plenty of sun each day..
- Geraniums prefer well-drained soil, and need plenty of sun each day.
- The geranium is not very cold hardy, so it is best to grow them in warm climates.
Geraniums can be propagated by tip cuttings, seed or division.
Tip cuttings are the most common method of propagation. They’re taken from the base of a healthy plant and then planted in soil. Geraniums can also be propagated by seed or division, but these methods require more time and effort than taking a tip cutting.
Geraniums are typically grown as annuals, so you’ll need to replace them every year after they die back in autumn or winter.
Many people don’t know that the term geranium means “crane’s bill.”
Many people don’t know that the term geranium means “crane’s bill.” Geraniums are perennial plants that are often grown as an annual. They produce long-lasting blooms and deeply lobed leaves, which resemble a crane’s bill.
These plants have been cultivated since ancient times; they were first mentioned in written records about 2,000 years ago. In addition to their ornamental value, geraniums can also be used for their edible flowers—though it should be noted that these flowers are quite bitter.
Conclusion
It’s quite surprising how many people don’t know about geraniums and their interesting history. But now that you know a little bit more about this plant, maybe it’ll give you something to talk about at the next cocktail party!