Pelargonium 'Calliope Dark Red' (Zonal-ivy hybrid Geranium)

Common name: Geranium 'Calliope Dark Red'

Description: Pelargonium 'Calliope Dark Red' is a vigorous, semi-trailing pelargonium from the acclaimed Calliope series, bred as a cross between zonal and ivy-leaf geranium types to deliver the best of both worlds: the rich, velvety flower colour of a zonal combined with the trailing, weather-resilient habit of an ivy-leaf. The blooms are a deep, lustrous dark red, produced in generous trusses over a very long season from spring right through to the first frosts. Its trailing habit makes it outstanding in hanging baskets, window boxes, and tall containers.

Other benefits: very long flowering season spring to frost; excellent weather resistance; vigorous trailing habit ideal for baskets; performs well in sun or partial shade

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects

Height & spread (approx.) at maturity: 30–40cm tall; trailing to 60cm

Position: full sun to partial shade; hanging baskets, window boxes, and large containers

Soil pH: neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); well-drained, fertile compost; avoid waterlogging

Moisture: allow compost surface to partially dry between waterings; feed with a balanced then high-potash fertiliser through the season

Winter hardiness: frost tender; grow as an annual outdoors or overwinter under glass