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What is the difference between a geranium and a pelargonium?
I always thought they were the same, but now my "clever" neighbour tells me they are not.
I didn't think to ask why, so if anyone can tell me, I will look clever next time the subject comes up ;D

There are two types of geranium, one of which is officially a pelargonium. Pelargoniums are what most people call geraniums , used for summer bedding, pots etc, smelly leaves.
The orhers, hardy geraniums, are one of my favourites for filling up borders.Like these:
http://plants.thompson-morgan.com/list/geraniums-hardy?er=googleuk;term=hardy+geraniums

Thanks Caroline, there are certainly some very attractive plants there.

to confuse things you've also got half-hardy geraniums, like the fantastic Geranium maderense from Madeira

Extract from my website

Pelargoniums are frequently known as geraniums and should not be confused with the genus geranium.(cranesbill)

Pelargoniums; http://tinyurl.com/2b3qnr

Geranium; http://tinyurl.com/23jq82