Bushy pelargoniums

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).

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.

These plants dislike wet soil or compost. Growth will be leggy in shade and plants will not flower.

Although often associated with Mediterranean countries, pelargoniums mostly originate from South Africa, coming from a range of habitats from mountains to deserts.