Common names: geranium, ivy geranium

Description: Geraniums have scalloped leaves and clusters of five-petalled flowers. Variations include double flowers and dark or white leaf variegation. Ivy geranium leaves resemble English ivy; shoots cascade over the edges of containers. Colors include red, pink, salmon, orange, magenta, purple, white and bicolors. Different species have fragrances including rose, lemon, peppermint, apple and nutmeg scents. They make excellent bedding and blooming plants.

Special care: Water when the soil is fairly dry and remove excess water. They do best in direct sunlight but grow well in partial sun also. Give potted plants all-purpose plant food monthly. Cut back a third of the growth from plants kept over winter. Keep foliage dry.