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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Native Pelargonium handles dry conditions well once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Native Pelargonium after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Native Pelargonium with species that also favour very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. 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. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
