Pelargonium sidoides (African geranium, black pelargonium) — dainty, narrow-petalled flowers of a rich burgundy-maroon to near-black hue, blooming continuously from spring to winter, over compact velvety grey-green leaves. A good pick for pollinators, evergreen, full sun. Direct sunlight is vital to maintain its velvety, dark burgundy flower colour.
Quantity
Couldn't load pickup availability
🌿 Grown at our London nursery — collect in person or arrange local delivery
📦 Dispatched within 3 business days via Royal Mail
Product features
Botanical name: Pelargonium sidoides
Common name: African geranium, black pelargonium
Height: 30cm – 35cm
Spread: 40cm – 70cm
Foliage: Compact, velvety, rosette-forming, heart-shaped grey-green leaves
Flower: Dainty narrow-petalled burgundy-maroon to near-black flowers, spring to winter
Attractive to wildlife: Yes, attracts bees, butterflies
Soil Type: Fertile to poor, sand, loam, or chalk
Drought tolerant: Yes, highly drought-proof via tubers
Hardy: No, tender/half-hardy (H1C/H2)
Position: Full sun to very light partial shade
Evergreen: Yes
Suitable for: Pots, gravel layouts, conservatories, coastal schemes
Materials and care
Light: Full sun — vital to maintain velvety dark burgundy colour
Aspect: South- or west-facing, hot, sheltered positions
Soil type: Poor to moderately fertile, sandy or gravelly loam
Drainage: Sharply well-drained, fleshy tuberous roots rot in wet conditions
Watering: Low needs, allow soil to dry completely
Foliage protection: Frost-tender, move indoors before autumn frost
Fertiliser: None needed, feeding ruins the tight foliage cushion
Propagation: Separate rooted offsets in spring, or take basal cuttings
