Pelargonium Decima

Pelargonium Decima is adorned with richly coloured foliage that resembles maple leaves in its colour and palmate shape. The leaves bear 5 somewhat rounded lobes. They are edged with a yellow or bright green colour that contrasts with a marbled centre, tinged with dark brown and bronze on a green background. Simple fuchsia-pink flowers appear in summer and autumn, clearly visible on this dark background. They are, however, less abundant than in classic varieties. It is a little marvel for pots, providing year-round permanent decor if protected from frost.

Zonal pelargoniums include perennial hybrids from the Geraniaceae family, in a large group known as Pelargonium x hortorum. They are mostly derived from P. inquinans, native to the southeastern tip of Africa, with contributions from P. zonale and P. frutetorum. Decima is a variety whose magnificent foliage is its main asset. It forms a bushy and dense clump with a fairly rounded habit and modest growth. It reaches 30cm (12in) in height and 20cm (8in) in width. It is in flower all summer, producing simple, fuchsia-pink flowers. They are star-shaped with toothed petals. They are not especially spectacular, but contrast well with the variegated foliage whose colour varies depending on sunlight received by the plant. Its sturdy and succulent stems bear leaves with a light green border and a beautiful brown centre, revealing apple green veins.

Once reserved for balconies and patios, pelargoniums are now making a noticeable entrance into sunny flower beds and borders. Plant them en masse to create a lasting and cheerful decoration throughout the summer season. These plants tolerate drought quite well, meaning they can be combined with garden verbenas, blue lobelias, and black or purple-foliaged ipomoeas (Ipomoea Illusion Midnight Lace, Ipomoea Sweet Heart 'Purple'). Create beautiful pots and hanging baskets by pairing them with bright pink or red varieties, Million Bells, variegated periwinkles, Dichondra 'Silver Falls', violets, and calibrachoas. This variety will adorn the house or veranda throughout the year, especially when flowers are rare in winter.

Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products intended for experienced gardeners. Upon receipt, repot and store them under cover (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before planting them outdoors, once the risk of frost has definitely passed.