South African geranium (Pelargonium sidoides)
Care, watering, light and tips for South African geranium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About South African geranium
Pelargonium sidoides, also known as South African Geranium or Black Pelargonium, is a small perennial plant prized for its delicate, dark purple to almost black flowers and velvety, heart-shaped leaves. Its low, spreading habit makes it ideal for rockeries, path edges, or as a potted plant on patios and balconies. Beyond its ornamental appeal, it is recognized for its traditional medicinal properties.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun or light partial shade for abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, to which it is sensitive. Use a well-draining substrate, ideally a cactus or succulent mix with coarse sand or perlite. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot, especially in winter.
How to save a dying South African geranium
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting, soft leaves, with stems rotting from the base. Soft, dark roots. 🌿
- First aid
- Remove plant from pot, check roots. Cut off soft, rotted parts with a clean tool. Air dry for a few hours. Repot in a pot with excellent drainage and very light new substrate. Do not water for a week. 💧
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its main killer, especially in winter. Also lack of light and heavy substrate that retains too much moisture. 🌧️
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! If rot hasn't reached the entire main stem and some healthy roots remain, there's hope. Act fast. 💪