Pelargonium x hortorum
Pelargonium x hortorum
Zonal Geranium
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Taxonomy
Family Geraniaceae · Genus Pelargonium
Description
Pelargonium x hortorum, the classic zonal geranium, is a sunny, floriferous favorite for beds, borders, and containers. It blooms for months with bold clusters in vibrant reds, pinks, whites, and more, all while staying tidy and easy to care for—perfect for beginners and busy gardeners alike.
Common Names
Zonal GeraniumGarden GeraniumBedding GeraniumCommon Geranium
Context
nativeRegion
Hybrid of South African species (notably Pelargonium zonale and P. inquinans).
usdaZones
10–11 (commonly grown as an annual elsewhere).
companionPlants
Petunia, Calibrachoa, Lobelia, Sweet Alyssum, Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria), Dracaena (spikes), Verbena, Salvia
culturalUses
Widely used as a bedding and container plant, in window boxes, public plantings, and classic Victorian-style displays; valued for long-season color and ease of care.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun for best bloom (6+ hours); light afternoon shade in hot climates.
WateringWater when the top inch of soil is dry; moderate, avoid soggy roots. Slightly drought-tolerant once established.
SoilWell-draining potting mix or garden soil amended with perlite or grit; pH 6.0–7.0.
FertilizerFeed with a balanced or bloom-boosting water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce in winter.
HumidityAverage household humidity is fine; avoid persistently humid, stagnant air to prevent rot.
TemperatureBest at 65–80°F (18–27°C) days, 50–60°F (10–16°C) nights. Not frost-hardy; protect below 40°F (4°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitBushy, mounding, semi-woody perennial (often grown as an annual).
Mature Size12–24 in tall and wide (30–60 cm); occasionally up to 36 in (90 cm).
Growth RateFast.
BloomingProlific clusters from spring to frost; colors include red, pink, white, salmon, and bi-colors.
DormancyIn frost-free areas, can be evergreen; indoors or in cool seasons, growth slows and may become semi-dormant.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Seed
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to summer for stem cuttings; start seeds indoors late winter to early spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRegularly deadhead spent flower stalks; pinch tips to encourage branching. Cut back by up to one-third before overwintering.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring; prefers slightly snug pots with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, mealybugs; diseases include botrytis, rust, bacterial blight, and edema from overwatering or cool, damp conditions.
ToxicityMildly toxic to pets (cats/dogs) if ingested; sap may irritate sensitive skin.
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