Pelargonium sidoides

species pelargoniums

Eventual height & spread

Pelargonium sidoides

species pelargoniums

  • 9cm pot
  • £7.99
  • available to order from spring
  • 2 + 1 FREE 9cm pots
  • £15.98 £5.33 each
  • available to order from spring
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Position: full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or general-purpose potting compost for containers
  • Rate of growth: average
  • Flowering period: May to November
  • Hardiness: frost tender (will need winter protection)


Sumptuous magenta flowers that look near black in certain lights, contrast delightfully with the scalloped, velvety, grey foliage that looks great even when there are no flowers.

Traditionally sought after for its medicinal properties, Pelargonium sidoides is an award-winning, South African native, which is still used in cold and flu medicines today.


  • Garden care:
    Pot up in free-draining compost and grow them on in a bright, frost-free spot. Move plants outside only after all risk of frost has passed, placing them in a sunny, sheltered position. Water regularly, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings, as they dislike being constantly wet. Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves to keep plants tidy and to encourage more blooms.

    Feed every couple of weeks through the growing season with a dilute high-potash fertiliser such as Tomorite to support flowering. Pinch back leggy growth to maintain a bushy shape, and bring plants back indoors before autumn frosts if you wish to overwinter them.
  • Goes well with