Madeira pelargonium
The Madeira pelargonium (Geranium maderense) is a spectacular plant with a truly unique architecture: with no trunk, it props itself up on its dried old leaves to reach up to 1.60 m in height. Its majestic mauve or white flowering, achieved after 4 years of growth, makes it an unmissable architectural feature for any garden or terrace.
The Madeira pelargonium (Geranium maderense), known in English as the Giant Herb-Robert, is a truly extraordinary plant. Its spectacular architecture, fascinating growth habit and majestic flowering make it one of the most remarkable species in our collection. Native to the island of Madeira, off the Portuguese coast, it belongs to the Geraniaceae family.
A unique architecture in the plant world
This geranium is like no other. It has no trunk in the traditional sense: it is its old leaves that, once yellowed, gradually dry out and fold back along the main stem to form natural prop roots. Through this ingenious mechanism, the plant slowly straightens up to reach up to 1.60 m in height at the peak of flowering.
Once well established, it produces a spectacular flower head weighing around 2 kg — a botanical feat that requires patience: allow approximately 4 years to achieve this magnificent flowering.
A travelling geranium
In its natural habitat, the Madeira pelargonium is a true travelling plant. It projects its seeds several metres in every direction. Each seed develops a small radicle that allows it to be carried even further by the wind. When it finds suitable ground, it plants itself and begins its growth horizontally along the soil surface before gradually straightening upwards.
Flowering and available varieties
The Madeira pelargonium flowers from early March to mid-May. We offer two varieties in our collection:
- Geranium maderense: spectacular mauve flower head, generous and eye-catching.
- Geranium maderense Alba: a rarer variety with an elegant white flowering.
How to grow the Madeira pelargonium
What exposure does it need?
The Madeira pelargonium thrives in a sunny to partially shaded position. It tolerates heat well but dislikes strong winds, which can destabilise its prop structure. Choose a sheltered spot to allow it to develop its full height.
In a pot or in the ground?
It grows well both in containers and in the ground. In a pot, it can easily be brought indoors during winter in colder regions. In the ground, it is best suited to mild climate areas (Atlantic or Mediterranean coastal regions). Browse our gardening advice for tips on growing it successfully.
How often should you water it?
The Madeira pelargonium requires regular but moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In pots, always ensure good drainage — it cannot tolerate waterlogged roots.
How to overwinter it?
The Madeira pelargonium is not frost-hardy: it cannot withstand prolonged freezing temperatures. In regions with cold winters, bring your plant indoors to a frost-free, bright and well-ventilated space before the first frosts. Reduce watering to a minimum until spring. Find all our recommendations on our pelargoniums information page.
Frequently asked questions about the Madeira pelargonium
Is the Madeira pelargonium a perennial plant?
The Madeira pelargonium is a short-lived biennial: it typically lives for 2 to 3 years. However, it self-seeds very readily, projecting its seeds at a distance, which allows it to naturalise and perpetuate itself in your garden. Discover also our perennial plants collection for a truly long-lasting garden.
Does the Madeira pelargonium flower every year?
No. It takes approximately 4 years to produce its first flowering. Once it has flowered, the parent plant typically declines — but its seeds naturally ensure the next generation grows up around it.
How tall does the Madeira pelargonium grow?
It can reach up to 1.60 m in height, including the flower head. It is one of the most imposing geranium species in existence — a genuine architectural statement in a garden or on a terrace.
Can the Madeira pelargonium be grown indoors?
Yes, and this is one of its great qualities: it thrives both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, place it near a large, bright window to ensure it receives sufficient light.
Have a question about growing the Madeira pelargonium? Our team is here to help. Browse also our full geraniums and pelargoniums collection to complete your garden.