Introducing...
Bushy pelargoniums
The most versatile of the pelargoniums, these upright plants with often musty-smelling leaves are sometimes further divided as Regal (open and shrubby), Angel (more compact) and Zonal (with a dark band on the leaves).
Looks
Sturdy stems carry a succession of saucer-like flowers in dense clusters. Some are pansy-like blooms, combining two colours. Others resemble rosebuds or have narrow petals. Leaves may be mid-green (Regal and Angel) or marked in maroon zones (Zonal).
Likes
Pelargoniums must have soil that drains easily and generally prefer full sun. Regals are best in partial shade. In containers, add grit, perlite or vermiculite to the compost to improve drainage.
Dislikes
These plants dislike wet soil or compost. Growth will be leggy in shade and plants will not flower.
Did you know?
Although often associated with Mediterranean countries, pelargoniums mostly originate from South Africa, coming from a range of habitats from mountains to deserts.
Growing guide
How to grow pelargoniums
All the information you’ll need to grow & care for pelargoniums in your garden.
Bushy pelargoniums we recommend
Pelargonium 'Lord Bute' (R)
geranium 'Lord Bute'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter' (Z/C)
geranium 'Mrs Quilter'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Pelargonium 'Lord Bute' (R)
geranium 'Lord Bute'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter' (Z/C)
geranium 'Mrs Quilter'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Containers: summer selection
Growing plants in containers
Pelargonium rust
Pelargonium viruses
Get involved
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