Genus of about 230 species of mainly evergreen perennials, succulents, subshrubs, and shruns, occuring in a variety of habitats, from mountains to deserts, mostly in South Africa. Pelargoniums are one of the world's favourite house plants. They are easy to grow and propagate and they have a long flowering period. These are the plants popularly known as Flowering Geraniums. There is also a group which are grown for their aromatic foliage - the Scented-leaved Geraniums. Use a sunny area such as a south or west window. Geranium needs a well-drained soil mix, allowed to dry slightly between watering. Too much shade and nitrogen causes lush growth but few flowers. Pelargoniums are generally hardy to 36 F (2 C).