Geraniums and pelargoniums
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January 28, 2023
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Most of us know geraniums and pelargoniums. They are both parts of the geranium family, Geraniaceae. Plants in this family generally have five petals and five sepals. Geraniaceae is a large family with approximately 420 species of Geranium alone.
We commonly see many other plants in this family in the landscape. Do you recognize them?
In “Marin Flora,” John Thomas Howell describes 15 different species.
Cranesbill, Geranium molle, although not native to California, is widespread and sometimes abundant in grassland or scrub. The common name comes from the development of the seed into a capsule with an extended bill or beak.
Filaree, Erodium botrys, is also common in Marin County. Howell says, “its rosy-mauve flowers impart to the landscape color that can be perceived at a considerable distance.”
These are both early spring bloomers. Look for them along the trails soon.
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Katie Martin