Collector's Geraniums
Explore our exceptional collection of collector's geraniums (Pelargonium). Rare botanical species, heritage varieties, and modern cultivars with spectacular blooms: zonal geraniums, ivy-leaved, regal pelargoniums, and South African species unavailable in garden centres. Our nursery passionately cultivates over 50 varieties of exceptional pelargoniums, selected for their beauty, originality, and ease of care. All plants grown in France, in our greenhouses in western France.
What is a collector's geranium?
The collector's geranium, or more precisely Pelargonium, encompasses all the remarkable species and varieties of this large family native to South Africa. Discovered by European botanists in the 17th century and first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, pelargoniums have conquered gardens worldwide thanks to their generous blooms and exceptional diversity.
Unlike hardy geraniums (genus Geranium), pelargoniums are frost-tender plants typically grown in pots or planters to adorn balconies, terraces, and gardens from May to October.
Different types of collector's geraniums
Our pelargonium collection features a wide diversity of forms and colours:
- Zonal geranium (Pelargonium x hortorum): the classic window box plant, recognisable by its dark zone on the foliage. Abundant flowering from May to October.
- Ivy-leaved geranium (Pelargonium peltatum): trailing habit ideal for hanging baskets and window boxes. Fleshy, glossy foliage.
- Regal pelargonium (Pelargonium grandiflorum): large, sumptuous flowers often in bicolour shades, sometimes called "Martha Washington geranium".
- Botanical species: Pelargonium echinatum, P. fulgidum, P. cucullatum... treasures for discerning collectors.
- Decorative foliage pelargoniums: 'Mrs Quilter', 'Franck Headley', 'Crocodile'... grown as much for their variegated foliage as for their flowers.
How to grow collector's geraniums?
Which soil and compost to use?
Pelargoniums thrive in rich, well-drained soil. Use quality flowering plant compost, light and fertile. When planting in the ground, loosen the soil thoroughly before planting to prevent waterlogging, which damages roots.
What light exposure for geraniums?
Collector's geraniums prefer a sunny to partially shaded position, with a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of direct light daily. Too much shade reduces flowering.
How to prune geraniums?
Pruning encourages branching, flowering, and prevents disease:
- In spring: pinch out young shoots to encourage branching before flowering.
- In summer: regularly remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period.
- In autumn: cut back stems by a third before overwintering to ease storage.
How long do geraniums flower?
Flowering duration varies by variety. Zonal geraniums typically flower from May to October, peaking in summer. Regal pelargoniums can flower year-round indoors. Some botanical species have shorter but spectacular flowering periods.
When and how to take geranium cuttings?
Taking geranium cuttings is best done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing:
- Take 10-15cm stem cuttings, without flowers, using clean secateurs.
- Remove the lower leaves, keeping only 2 or 3 leaves at the top.
- Plant in a moist sand/compost mix or in water.
- Place out of direct sunlight and keep the substrate moist until rooting (2-3 weeks).
Why choose our collector's geraniums?
Fuchsia Delhommeau nursery, located in La Planche in western France, has been growing pelargoniums for over 30 years. We guarantee:
- Rare varieties unavailable in garden centres: botanical species, heritage cultivars, new introductions.
- Plants grown in France, in our own greenhouses, using eco-friendly methods.
- Careful packaging for delivery in perfect condition.
- Expert advice from passionate growers to help you succeed with your pelargoniums.