Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pelargonium mirabile
IntermediatePelargonium mirabile
A winter-growing Pelargonium from Namibia that forms a low mound of hundreds of pencil-thin, glossy dark brown branches, branching like coral. After rain it puts out grey-green leaves and white to pale pink flowers.
About
Pelargonium mirabile is a succulent, thick-stemmed member of the Geraniaceae from inland areas around Lüderitz in the southern Namib Desert of Namibia. It grows on rocky inselbergs with only 25-50 mm of rain a year, among rocks and shifting sand with no shrubs to shade it, exposed to strong winds and sandstorms. Usually under 30 cm tall but spreading to about 60 cm, it branches from a very short main stem into hundreds of pencil-thin branches; this coral-like branching is unique in the genus, and the branches are glossy red-brown to dark grey-brown. For most of the year it is leafless; after rain it puts out soft grey-green leaves, followed by umbels of four to twelve white to pale pink flowers with cherry-red blotches on every petal. The leaves fall in summer. It is very close to the more coastal P. crassicaule, differing in its thinner, more numerous branches and wedge-shaped leaf bases, and GBIF treats it as a synonym of that species. In Japan individual plants are sold online and rooted cuttings by specialist nurseries.
Size of the Pelargonium mirabile
The Pelargonium mirabile grows to Under 30 cm tall and about 60 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern Namibia (around Lüderitz in the Namib Desert)
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial (little published data)
Size
Under 30 cm tall and about 60 cm across
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
A little during the growing season
Growing Tips
Dormancy Care
A winter grower that rests in summer. Water in the spring (February to April) and autumn (August to November) growing periods, keep it completely dry in summer and rather dry in winter.
Light & Placement
In summer give it light shade or morning sun and avoid strong afternoon sun.
Watering
Water only when temperatures are at least 14°C. Too much water and fertiliser spoil its naturally compact shape, so err on the sparing side.
Temperature & Overwintering
Protect it from frost and keep it dry at a minimum of 8°C.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining, largely pumice mix with almost no organic matter.
Propagation
Seed from ripe fruit germinates freely, and cuttings also root; sow in spring or autumn.
Pelargonium mirabile FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pelargonium mirabile?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Pelargonium mirabile get?
The mature size of Pelargonium mirabile is Under 30 cm tall and about 60 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pelargonium mirabile?
Pelargonium mirabile: watering & fertilizer — A little during the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pelargonium mirabile?
The price of Pelargonium mirabile varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Pelargonium mirabile Dinter
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · GBIF: Pelargonium crassicaule
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
GBIF treats this species as a synonym of P. crassicaule, which South Africa listed in CITES Appendix III in 2023. Appendix III species need an export permit or certificate of origin for international trade, but no registration is required for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Pelargonium crassicaule
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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