Overview
Pelargonium x hortorum is a bushy shrubs in the genus Pelargonium, part of the Geraniaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Pelargonium x hortorum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. It is drought resistant and low maintenance. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and flower borders and beds.
About
Pelargonium × hortorum, commonly called zonal geranium, or garden geranium, is a nothospecies of Pelargonium most commonly used as an ornamental plant. It is a hybrid between Pelargonium zonale and Pelargonium inquinans.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pelargonium × hortorum
About the genus
Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants commonly called geraniums, pelargoniums, or storksbills. It includes about 280 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs. Taxonomist Carl Linnaeus originally included all the species of Pelargonium and Geranium under the latter name.
Wikipedia contributors, "Pelargonium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pelargonium
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pelargonium
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Pelargonium x hortorum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pelargonium x hortorum
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in spring, late summer, or early autumn
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil, Caterpillars, Thrips
- Disease resistance
- Grey moulds
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pelargonium x hortorum?
Pelargonium x hortorum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pelargonium x hortorum need?
Pelargonium x hortorum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Pelargonium x hortorum grow?
Pelargonium x hortorum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Pelargonium x hortorum hardy in the UK?
Pelargonium x hortorum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Pelargonium x hortorum?
Softwood cuttings in spring, late summer, or early autumn.
More in the Pelargonium genus
- Pelargonium 'Barbe Bleu' (I/d)
- Pelargonium 'Diana Louise' (Z/d)
- Pelargonium 'Elizabeth Taylor' (Z)
- Pelargonium 'Hazel Gypsy' (R)
- Pelargonium 'Brookside Spitfire' (Dw/d)
- Pelargonium 'Deacon Jubilant' (Z/d)
- Pelargonium 'Don's Richard A. Costain' (Z/C/v/d)
- Pelargonium 'Friesdorf' (Fr/Dw)geranium 'Friesdorf'