Pelargonium scabrum grows in the winter rainfall region of southern Africa in full sun and well-drained sandy soil. It needs water all year round but less in winter than in summer. It can withstand drought.

Like most pelargoniums, Pelargonium scabrum is easy to propagate from cuttings taken at any time of the year. Take stem cuttings from a healthy, vigorously growing plant. To speed up the rooting process, use a rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a tray filled with river sand and place the tray in a cold frame or in a cool, slightly shaded area. Keep the tray damp. The cuttings will root within 4 weeks.

Once the cuttings have rooted, pot them into a well-drained, sandy medium and place them in a sunny position. Water the newly potted plants every third day. When they have formed a strong root-ball, plant them into the garden.

Sow seeds in autumn, in a light, well-drained potting mix. Sprinkle the seeds evenly in the seed tray and cover them with fine white sand or fine-milled pine bark. Water the seeds gently but thoroughly with a fine spray and place them in light shade with no direct sun. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks.