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Pelargonium cucullatum (L) L'H�r.

Family: Geraniaceae

Common names: hooded-leaf pelargonium, herba althaea (Eng.); wildemalva (Afr.)

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Pelargonium cucullatum is the parent of many modern pelargonium hybrids. It is a

fast growing, tough shrub tolerant to coastal conditions, and is also excellent for
growing in containers on a sunny patio, informal borders and rockeries.

Pelargoinium cucullatum
Description

When in flower Pelargonium cucullatum is covered with pinkish, purple flowers and
is the most conspicuous pelargonium in the south western Cape, especially when
growing in dense masses.

P.cucullatum

Pelargonium cucullatum is a fairly tall, sprawling shrub that grows to a height of

more than 2 m. The shrub is branched with the bottom of the main stem becoming
quite woody. The leaves are more or less round or kidney-shaped and cupped,
sometimes succulent. When crushed the leaves of some forms emit a strong, sweet
scent. The leaves are approximately 5-8 cm wide, turned upward, slightly incised
and have reddish tips. Both the stems and leaves are hairy.

Flower of P.cucullatum

The flowers come in many shades, ranging from dark to light mauve and pink.
Occasionally white forms are also found. The veins on the flowers are streaked
purple and are prominent on all five petals. Pelargonium cucullatum flowers
profusely for a month or two, any time from September to February. The flowers are
faintly scented. Sunbirds, butterflies, long-beaked flies and moths have all been
observed visiting the flowers.
Distribution and habitat

Pelargonium cucullatum is a tough and widespread shrub, which grows on the sandy
and granite slopes along the Cape coast from Saldanha to Baardskeerdersbos.
Derivation of name and historical aspects

The species name comes from the Latin cucullatus meaning "hood" and refers to the
shape of the cupped leaves. The plant was introduced into cultivation in England by
Bentick in 1690.