Pelargonium tricuspidatum

Pelargonium tricuspidatum is a natural hybrid between two rarely available South African species. This "geranium" is recognisable by the unique appearance of its foliage. Its astonishing trident-shaped leaves are upright with three points. They boast a beautiful glossy dark green colour. In summer, it produces small white flowers with fine carmine markings that stand out against the foliage. This pelargonium has an attractive upright habit. It is easy to grow in light and fertile soils, in full sun. Outside coastal areas, it should be protected from frost during winter.

Pelargonium tricuspidatum is a spontaneous hybrid of P. scabrum and P. lanceolatum. It is a perennial shrub belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It has an upright, bushy habit, and reaches about 80cm (32in) in height and 50cm (20in) in spread. Its evergreen foliage is abundant and remarkable. It consists of upright, leathery, smooth, veined leaves, divided into 3 heavily toothed lobes along the edges. They radiate from a central stem. This succulent stem helps it to withstand dry periods. Flowering occurs in spring and summer, earlier or later depending on the climate. The flowers are small and delightful. The two larger upper petals have a particularly refined carmine pattern.

Pelargonium tricuspidatum will delight collectors of pelargoniums and other geraniums. Its astonishing growth is particularly interesting. It will look wonderful in a pot or in the ground. Plant it in a location where you can admire it and show it off. It will look wonderful in a pot on a patio or in a conservatory. Pelargoniums often delight us with their sometimes unexpected and wonderful scents. In mild, frost-free climates it is a low-maintenance plant, making it ideal for coastal gardens.