Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants which includes about 200 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as geraniums or storksbills. Confusingly, Geranium is the correct botanical name of a separate genus of related plants often called Cranesbills. Both genera are in the Family Geraniaceae. They are drought and heat tolerant, but can tolerate only minor frosts. Some species are extremely popular garden plants, grown as bedding plants in temperate regions.

Pelargonium papilionaceum is an erect strongly or unpleasantly scented shrub, reaching a height of 2 m. The base of the main stem is woody whereas the side branches are herbaceous and covered with long soft hairs. The cordate (heart-shaped) leaves are usually about 70 mm long and 100 mm wide. The leaf margins are finely toothed, minutely serrated (saw-toothed) or almost entire. It has been reported that the leaves of Pelargonium papilionaceum were used as a tobacco substitute, and it is possible that they were smoked for medicinal purposes. Horticulturally, pelargoniums are a versatile group of plants that can be rewarding in any garden. When gardening with the butterfly pelargonium one should bear in mind that it is best grown in a shady area of the garden. It grows to a fairly tall height, so make sure that you plant it in the background of your shady garden. It will also make an interesting addition to a scented garden although some consider its scent to be unpleasant.