Zonal Geranium
Pelargonium x hortorum
A popular flowering plant known for its circular, ruffled leaves that often feature a distinct dark, horseshoe-shaped 'zone' or band of color. They produce clusters of flowers on long stalks.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best blooming.
- Water
- Moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established but prone to root rot if overwatered.
- Growth
- Perennial herb (usually grown as an annual); upright, mounding habit reaching 1-3 feet tall and wide.
Care instructions
Provide plenty of light and well-draining soil. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best blooming.
Watering
Moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established but prone to root rot if overwatered.
Soil
Well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 10-11 (grown as annuals elsewhere or brought indoors for winter).
Growth habit
Perennial herb (usually grown as an annual); upright, mounding habit reaching 1-3 feet tall and wide.
Bloom season
Spring through fall; produces umbrella-like clusters (umbels) of flowers in red, pink, white, or orange.
Propagation
Easily propagated by stem cuttings taken in spring or summer, or by seed.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and fungal issues like botrytis (gray mold) or rust if air circulation is poor.
Similar species
Ivy Geranium (Pelargonium peltatum), which has a trailing habit and ivy-like leaves, and Scented Geraniums (various Pelargonium spp.), which are grown for fragrant foliage.