perennial

Regal Geranium

The Story

Plant Bio

Pelargonium x domesticum, the regal geranium, is an upright, bushy subshrub reaching one to three feet in height, with rounded, crinkled leaves that feature sharp, irregular teeth. The showy flowers are borne in dense umbel clusters held above the foliage canopy, displaying vivid shades of pink, purple, red, and white, often marked with contrasting dark blotches.

This artificial hybrid group, derived from South African species, is distinguished by its large, pansy-like blooms and its strict requirement for cool night temperatures to initiate flowering. Unlike common zonal geraniums, its foliage lacks a dark concentric zone and is distinctly sandpapery to the touch.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces large, showy, multi-colored flower clusters that resemble pansies, held above attractive crinkled foliage.

Highly suited for container culture, allowing tender plants to be easily moved indoors for winter protection.

Provides nectar for generalist insect pollinators and occasionally attracts curious hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to pets, skin irritant

Bloom period

Late spring – Summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in a highly draining, fertile potting mix or garden loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Position in full sun to partial shade, providing light afternoon shade during intense summer heat waves.
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot never sits in standing water.
Maintain cool night temperatures during the winter resting phase to ensure reliable bud development for the next season.

Pro Tip

To trigger flower bud initiation for the following year, expose the plant to consistently cool night temperatures between 50°F and 60°F for several weeks during winter; keeping them in warm indoor rooms year-round results in purely vegetative growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Deadhead spent flower stems at their base to encourage continuous blooming.
Provide excellent drainage to prevent fatal root and stem rots.
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks during active spring and summer growth.

Don't

Do not overwater or allow the soil to remain waterlogged.
Do not cut back blindly into old, leafless bare wood when pruning.
Do not fertilize during the winter rest period.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Propagate
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Patio ContainersWindow BoxesBorder FrontsIndoor Houseplants

Companion Plants

Lobelia erinus Calibrachoa Salvia farinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Regal Geranium questions

What zones can Regal Geranium grow in?

Regal 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.

When does Regal Geranium bloom?

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

Does Regal Geranium need full sun?

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