Pelargonium bowkeri
Family: Geraniaceae
What it is like
A herb or small shrub which forms tubers and over-winters using these. It grows 30-40 cm high and spreads 50-100 cm wide. The roots are thickened and like tubers. The lower leaves are simple, rounded and have teeth. The later leaves are finely divided and like feathers. The flowers have fringed petals. They are pink. There are 2 upper petals and then the lower petals are finely divided into filaments.
There are about 230 Pelargonium species.
Where it is found
It is a Mediterranean plant. It grows between 300-2.200 m altitude in South Africa. It grows in areas with an annual rainfall between 600-800 mm. It can tolerate frost. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zones 9-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Australia, Europe, Lesotho, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten as a green vegetable. The roots are eaten as a meal.
The leaves are eaten especially by children.
Edible parts
Leaves, root
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Bolila khomo, Khvaara, Kxoara