Species

19 other cultivars

perennial

Great Balls of Fire Geranium

Pelargonium x hortorum 'Great Balls of Fire'

The Story

Plant Bio

Pelargonium x hortorum, commonly known as zonal geranium, is a bushy, evergreen perennial with rounded, often variegated leaves and clusters of vibrant, usually red or pink, rounded flowers that create a striking display.

This cultivar, Great Balls of Fire, is distinguished by its fiery red flowers with dark centers, adding a bold splash of color and visual interest to containers and garden beds.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant, colorful flowers add lively accents to gardens and containers.

Drought-tolerant, low-water needs make it ideal for water-wise gardening.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesPelargonium x hortorumZonal Geranium

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Fertilize monthly during active growth.
Pinch back to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
Protect from frost in colder zones.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply when soil is dry 🌱
Prune dead flowers regularly
Use balanced fertilizer monthly

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy clay soil without amendments
Do not fertilize in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid hanging basketsColorful container displaysBright border edging

Companion Plants

Lobelia PetuniaSweet Potato Vine Calibrachoa Verbena

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Great Balls of Fire Geranium questions

What zones can Great Balls of Fire Geranium grow in?

Great Balls of Fire Geranium is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Great Balls of Fire Geranium deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Great Balls of Fire Geranium, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Great Balls of Fire Geranium bloom?

Great Balls of Fire Geranium typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Great Balls of Fire Geranium need full sun?

Great Balls of Fire Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Great Balls of Fire Geranium drought tolerant?

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