Quick Guide: summer, tender, sun, height: 30-60cm/12-24in, width: 20cm/8in

Pelargoniums are often (wrongly) called geraniums, the name properly given to the hardy perennial cranesbill. Native to Africa, these tender species with their showy blooms are an essential element in hanging baskets, window boxes and tubs as well as summer bedding schemes. Among the most popular types for this purpose are the hybrids known as Regal and Zonal pelargoniums, which are available in all shades of pink, red, maroon and white. Zonal hybrids have beautifully coloured leaves.

GROWING Set out young plants in early summer in moderately fertile soil in full sun. Remove faded flowerheads. Water freely, giving a high-potash feed occasionally. In autumn put plants under protection. Cut back older plants and put up in good compost.

PROPAGATION Take cuttings from over wintered plants in spring and insert in a peat/sand mixture. Pot on when rooted. Plants may also be raised successfully from seed sown under protection .in early spring.

VARIETIES 'Princess of Wales', frilled, strawberry pink; `Grand Slam', abundant rose-red blooms; `Nomad', white, blotched pink. Many other good varieties.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Low night temperatures cause reddening of leaves and stems. Leaves turn yellow if soil is too dry.