Geraniums may seem common or old-fashioned, but they have remained popular for over three centuries for more than one reason.

Originally brought to Europe from South Africa in the 1600s, Geraniums have been selectively bred ever since to create the thousands of cultivars in existence today. Loved for their bright colors, interesting leaves, reliable performance, and low fuss nature, Geraniums have stood the popularity test of time.

Now for the confusing part. What most of us picture when we think of Geraniums are actually Pelargoniums. However, the name Geranium has been used for so long that for practical purposes, we just keep using it.

Technically though, while Geraniums and Pelargoniums are in the same family (Geraniaceae), Geranium is the correct genus for perennial varieties often called Cranesbill or Hardy Geraniums and Pelargonium is the genus for the more tender varieties (not frost tolerant) that are most often planted in containers. They are also popular bedding plants, especially in temperate areas that rarely, if ever, see cold temperatures.

Here we will discuss the most common types of Pelargoniums, but we’ll call them Geraniums. Confused?

There are many different varieties. They are further divided into types based on leaf and flower shape, size, veining, scent, and growth habit. The most commonly found types in nurseries include Zonal, Ivy Leaved, Scented Leaf, and Regal.

Zonal Geraniums

Zonal Geraniums are the most commonly seen. These have rounded leaves, sometimes with a dark band and erect stems with large clusters of flowers held above the foliage. These are further divided into types based on flower shape, color, and veining. But that could be a whole other blog post so I’ll refrain from rambling on about that.

Ivy Leaved Geraniums

Ivy Leaved Geraniums are a trailing type perfect for spilling over the edge of a container. They have a thick leaf cuticle which makes them more tolerant of dry conditions, so they are a good bet if you are the type that may forget to water occasionally.

Scented Leaf Varieties

Scented Leaf types come in an amazing variety of scents, of which lemon, mint, and rose are the most common. Other scents include apple, strawberry, pineapple, ginger, nutmeg, Old Spice (yes, really), clove, and coconut among others. The flowers are generally less showy than other types, but still a nice addition to any container garden. Force of habit makes me rub the leaves of Geraniums whenever I see them. I then smell my fingers hoping for a delicious scent. Sometimes I’m disappointed and look kind of dumb, but it’s worth it when I catch a whiff of a good one.

Regal Varieties

Regal Geraniums, also known as Martha Washington Geraniums, are recognized by their larger flowers that are often heavily veined or patterned. This type tends to shut down bloom production in really hot weather, but will bloom continuously in more mild temperatures.