Muscate zonale - Pelargonium (Zonale Grp) 'Tango White Splash'

Pelargonium 'Tango White Splash' , also known as Zonal Geranium 'Tango White Splash', is a cultivar of zonal Pelargonium in the Geraniaceae family, prized for its bicolor flowers, compactness and high productivity . Part of the Tango series, developed for efficiency in cultivation, this annual hybrid is ideal for gardens, containers and hanging baskets, offering a long-lasting floral display and decorative appearance.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are round, palmate, dark green , with a slightly velvety texture and a darker area near the edges, characteristic of zonal geraniums. The foliage is dense, forming a compact bush that contrasts beautifully with the flowers.
• Flowers : The flowers are large, clustered in umbels, with pure white petals and a vibrant deep pink or red-purple center, creating a "splash" effect. They bloom from late spring to fall (May-October), providing continuous color. The flowers have a light, subtle fragrance.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows as a compact plant, reaching 25-30 cm tall and 25-35 cm wide , with a round, bushy shape, ideal for small spaces or dense arrangements.
• Vigor : It has rapid growth with excellent uniformity, being designed for high-density production and fast cultivation cycles.
• Type : It is an annual plant in temperate climates, but can be kept as a perennial in warm areas (USDA 9-11) or brought indoors over the winter.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun for abundant flowering, but tolerates partial shade , with slightly reduced flowering. Requires a minimum of 6 hours of light daily.
• Soil : It needs well-drained , fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). A potting mix with perlite or vermiculite is ideal.
• Watering : Requires regular watering, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Temperature : Grows well at 15-27°C , being sensitive to temperatures below 5°C . In temperate climates, it should be protected over winter or grown as an annual.

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : Hardy in zones 9-11, but in colder climates, including Romania, it is treated as an annual or brought indoors in the winter. It tolerates heat well, but is sensitive to excessive humidity and leaf spotting, which can cause mold (Botrytis).
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring-summer) to support flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to abundant foliage at the expense of flowers.
• Pruning : Remove faded flowers (deadheading) to encourage continued flowering. Pinch the tips in spring to encourage branching and a more compact shape.
• Pests and Diseases : May be affected by aphids, mites, or gray mold in high humidity conditions. Maintaining a soil pH above 6.0 prevents iron or manganese toxicity. Good ventilation and base watering reduce the risk of disease.