There are nearly 260 different species in this genus but a relative few are suitable for landscapes. They come in several sizes from 3 inches to over 3 feet and colors range from white to dark puple. The single flowers have 5 petals. Some species are noted primarily for their foliage. Seedheads resemble the head of a crane, thus, the common name.

The plant commonly sold as an annual "geranium" is actually in the genus Pelargonium. It is a relative but not a "true" geranium.