perennial

Zonal Geranium

Pelargonium x hortorum 'Dark Red'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Average to low; prefers good air circulation

Lifespan

Perennial (in suitable zones)

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

The Story

Plant Bio

Pelargonium x hortorum, commonly known as zonal geranium, is a bushy, tender perennial often grown as an annual. It features succulent stems and rounded to kidney-shaped leaves that are often marked with a dark, horseshoe-shaped zone. It bears showy clusters (umbels) of flowers throughout the growing season. The 'Dark Red' cultivar is specifically selected for its profuse, long-lasting clusters of intense, deep velvety-red flowers. Its vigorous, upright to mounding habit makes it an excellent choice for containers, window boxes, and bedding schemes where a bold color statement is desired.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant red flowers add striking color to gardens and containers.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for busy gardeners.

Attracts beneficial insects like pollinators and bees.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Pinch back to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Protect from frost in colder zones by mulching or bringing indoors.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water when the topsoil feels dry 🌱
Pinch back to promote bushiness
Fertilize monthly during active growing season

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Allow soil to stay soggy
Expose to frost without protection ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright flower bordersContainer displays with vibrant colorHerb garden accents

Companion Plants

Lavender Petunias Sweet alyssum Marigolds Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Zonal Geranium questions

What zones can Zonal Geranium grow in?

Zonal Geranium is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Zonal Geranium deer resistant?

Yes — Zonal Geranium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Zonal Geranium bloom?

Zonal Geranium typically blooms in late spring to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Zonal Geranium need full sun?

Zonal Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Zonal Geranium drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Zonal Geranium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.