Discover everything you need to know about Regal Geraniums, from their scientific name to their bloom time, and learn how to grow these beautiful flowers in your own garden.
Hi, I’m Ashley Scott, and I’ve been gardening for over 10 years. During this time, I’ve fallen in love with many plants, but few have captured my heart quite like Regal Geraniums. These gorgeous flowers, with their bold colors and elegant blooms, have a special place in my garden and on my website, USA Garden Hub. If you’re looking to add a touch of royalty to your garden, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about Regal Geraniums, from their scientific name to how to care for them, so you can enjoy their beauty just as much as I do.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this article will answer all your questions about Regal Geraniums. Let’s dive in!
What are Regal Geraniums?
Regal Geraniums, also known as Pelargonium domesticum, are a type of geranium famous for their large, showy flowers and vibrant colors. Unlike the common geraniums you might see in window boxes, Regal Geraniums have a more refined and elegant appearance, making them a favorite for gardeners who want to add a touch of sophistication to their outdoor or indoor spaces.
I first discovered Regal Geraniums at a local nursery, and I was immediately drawn to their stunning blooms. The flowers come in a variety of colors, from deep purples and reds to soft pinks and whites, often with intricate patterns on the petals. Their lush, green foliage provides a perfect backdrop for these eye-catching flowers, making them a standout in any garden.
Scientific Name and Classification
The scientific name for Regal Geraniums is Pelargonium domesticum. They belong to the Geraniaceae family, which includes other popular garden plants like cranesbills and scented geraniums. It’s worth noting that while they’re commonly called geraniums, true geraniums are a different genus. In the gardening world, though, Pelargoniums are often referred to as geraniums, and that’s how most people know them.
Knowing the scientific name can be super helpful when you’re looking for specific care tips or trying to buy the right plant. For example, if you’re searching for Regal Geranium seeds, knowing they’re Pelargonium domesticum will make sure you get the correct variety.
Characteristics and Appearance
Colors and Patterns
One of the things I love most about Regal Geraniums is their incredible range of colors. The flowers can be:
- Deep purples
- Rich reds
- Soft pinks
- Pure whites
- Bi-colored varieties with contrasting edges or centers
Some even have unique patterns, like speckles or veins, that make each bloom feel like a work of art. When I first planted them in my garden, I chose a mix of colors to create a vibrant display, and they never fail to impress visitors.
Size
Regal Geraniums typically grow to be about 12 to 18 inches tall and can spread up to 24 inches wide. Their compact size makes them perfect for containers, window boxes, or as border plants in your garden. I’ve found they also work beautifully as indoor plants, especially if you have a sunny spot near a window.
Growing and Caring for Regal Geraniums
Growing Regal Geraniums isn’t too tricky, but they do have some specific needs to thrive. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
Soil and Fertilizer
These plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). I usually mix in some compost or organic matter to improve drainage and provide nutrients. When it comes to fertilizing, I use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Just don’t overdo it—too much fertilizer can lead to more leaves and fewer flowers.
Watering
Regal Geraniums like to be kept evenly moist but not soggy. I water mine when the top inch of soil feels dry. In the summer, this might mean watering every few days, while in cooler months, they need less. Overwatering can cause root rot, so let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Light Requirements
These plants love full sun to partial shade. In my garden, they do best with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a south-facing window where they can soak up plenty of light.
Propagation
You can propagate Regal Geraniums from seeds or cuttings. I’ve tried both methods with success. If you’re starting from seeds, sow them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost. For cuttings, take a 4-6 inch stem from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in moist soil. Keep it in a warm, bright spot until roots form.
If you’re looking to buy Regal Geranium seeds, check out reputable online stores or local nurseries. They’re often sold under the name Martha Washington geraniums too.
Bloom Time and Duration
Regal Geraniums typically bloom from late spring to early summer, with some varieties continuing into the fall if conditions are right. In my garden, they usually start blooming in May and keep going until July. To get more blooms, I deadhead the spent flowers regularly—it keeps the plant looking neat and encourages new growth.
Here’s a tip: Regal Geraniums prefer cooler temps for blooming. They tend to stop flowering when it gets above 80°F (27°C), so if you’re in a hot climate, give them some afternoon shade to extend their bloom time.
Annual or Perennial?
A question I hear a lot is: Are Regal Geraniums annuals or perennials? It depends on where you live.
In colder climates (USDA zones 9 and below), they’re grown as annuals because they can’t handle freezing temps. But in warmer regions (zones 10 and above), they can be perennials and come back year after year.
Living in a colder area, I bring mine indoors during winter. I’ve overwintered my Regal Geraniums by placing them in a sunny window and cutting back on watering until spring. It’s an easy way to enjoy them year-round!
The Story Behind the Name: Why Are They Called Martha Washington Geraniums?
Ever wondered why Regal Geraniums are also called Martha Washington geraniums? The name goes back to the 19th century when these plants came to the U.S. Their elegant, showy flowers reminded people of the formal gardens and refined style of that era, so they were named after Martha Washington, the first First Lady of the United States.
I love this little historical tidbit—it adds some charm to an already beautiful plant. When I see my Martha Washington geraniums, I can’t help but think of the elegance they bring to my garden.
Where to Buy Regal Geraniums
Ready to get your hands on some Regal Geraniums? You can find Martha Washington geraniums for sale at local nurseries, garden centers, and online stores. Here are a few places I recommend:
- Burpee – Great for seeds and plants.
- White Flower Farm – High-quality options with excellent service.
- Jackson & Perkins – Perfect for unique varieties.
For more gardening resources, check out my article on choosing the best plants for your garden on my site. When buying online, go with a trusted seller to ensure healthy plants or quality seeds.
Personal Experiences with Regal Geraniums
One of my favorite gardening memories is about Regal Geraniums. A few years back, I decided to grow them from seeds for the first time. I was nervous because I’d heard they could be finicky, but I followed the steps carefully and was thrilled when they bloomed that summer. Seeing those vibrant flowers felt like a big win, and it’s proof that with a little effort, anyone can grow these beauties.
I’ve also had my share of mistakes. Once, I overwatered a potted Regal Geranium, and it got root rot. Luckily, I saved it by repotting it in fresh soil and easing up on the water. If you’re new to these plants, don’t worry about slip-ups—they’re all part of learning!
For more tips on avoiding common gardening mistakes, take a look at my post on essential gardening care tips over at USA Garden Hub.
Conclusion
Regal Geraniums are a true treasure for any gardener. With their stunning colors, elegant blooms, and manageable care needs, they’re a fantastic addition to any space—whether it’s a garden bed, a pot, or even indoors. I hope this guide has inspired you to give them a try.
Want more gardening ideas? Head over to USA Garden Hub for additional tips and inspiration. Have questions or a story to share about your Regal Geraniums? Drop a comment below—I’d love to chat!
Happy gardening!
