A hardy native geranium forming a low clump of softly hairy scalloped leaves topped with clusters of pink, veined flowers in the warmer months. A tough, drought-tolerant groundcover perennial.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 40 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Native Pelargonium
Botanically, Pelargonium australe is a perennial in the Geraniaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. It reaches around 40 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink and white flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Native Pelargonium
Native Pelargonium suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice, tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is usually left alone by rabbits.
Soil & planting
Native Pelargonium does best in free-draining, sandy and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Native Pelargonium is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Native Pelargonium after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Native Pelargonium in the garden
Native Pelargonium earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, holding soil on banks and slopes and feeding bees and pollinators. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Native Pelargonium with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Native Pelargonium
Plant Sale lists Native Pelargonium as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.