Genetic transformation of geraniums

The florist’s geranium (Pelargonium×domesticum) is a favorite house plant, available in many varieties. OtherPelargoniumspecies are commercially important for geranium oil. These plants are known as scented geraniums and the principal ones are:P. graveolens,P. fragrans,P. odoratissimus,P. capitatum,P. quercifolia,P. citrosum, andP. abrotaniolium. The remaining families of the Geraniales order are of less economic importance; some are, however, important locally for food (as oil for seasoning or tuber production) and ornamental planting. An example of these is the “hardy geraniums”, hundreds of whose varieties are collected by gardeners and amateurs for their easy growth (e.g.,Geranium robertianumorG. psillostemon)