Pelargonium × domesticum
Lady Washington geranium · Martha Washington geranium · Regal pelargonium · Pansy-flower geranium · Regal geranium
Description
Source: leafsnapPelargonium () is a genus of flowering plants that includes about 280 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly called geraniums, pelargoniums, or storksbills. Geranium is also the botanical name and common name of a separate genus of related plants, also known as cranesbills. Both genera belong to the family Geraniaceae. Carl Linnaeus originally included all the species in one genus, Geranium, and they were later separated into two genera by Charles Louis L'Héritier de Brutelle in 1789. While Geranium species are mostly temperate herbaceous plants, dying down in winter, Pelargonium species are evergreen perennials indigenous to warm temperate and tropical regions of the world, with many species in southern Africa. They are drought and heat tolerant, but can tolerate only minor frosts. Some species are extremely popular garden plants, grown as houseplants and bedding plants in temperate regions. They have a long flowering period, with flowers mostly in red, orange, or white; but intensive breeding has produced a huge array of cultivars with great variety in size, flower colour, leaf form and aromatic foliage.
🌳 Regal Geranium, noted for its scented leaves, is valued not only for its decorative appeal but also as a source for extracting essential oils. The oils obtained from regal Geranium are highly regarded in aromatherapy for their calming and uplifting qualities, and they support a niche yet expanding market in natural health products.
🎭 Companionship, joy and positive feelings
Care Guide
💧 Water
The Regal Geranium flourishes in subtropical regions, requiring regular watering and moderate humidity. To maintain optimal soil conditions, water the plant weekly, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist but not soggy. As an evergreen, the Regal Geranium benefits from consistent soil moisture, which supports continuous foliage and flower display throughout the year, especially when cultivated indoors.
☀️ Light Partial sun
The regal Geranium performs best with moderate sunlight and can tolerate longer periods of stronger sun, though that is not always desirable. Excessive sun may scorch the leaves, while too little light can result in weak growth and fewer flowers. Native to places with variable sunlight, it can adapt to different light levels during various stages of growth.
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
The regal Geranium does best in a moderately warm temperature range of 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃). The plant is native to areas with relatively temperate climates and can suffer root rot if exposed to excessive cold. In winter, the ideal temperature range for growth is 59 to 68 ℉ (15 to 20 ℃) to encourage healthy dormancy.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
Proper fertilization is essential for the health and appearance of the Regal Geranium. Fertilize the Regal Geranium in summer, repeating the treatment monthly throughout the season. Nutrients supply energy for growth and help maintain the plant’s parts. Fertilizing boosts the Regal Geranium’s floral display, ensuring its best blooms.
🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years
When repotting Regal Geranium, pick a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly lower than the pot rim. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
✂️ Pruning
To keep Regal Geraniums healthy and blooming beautifully, regular pruning is essential. Trim the plants in early spring or late winter by cutting back one-third of their growth and removing any weak stems. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, encourages longer blooming periods. Proper pruning not only enhances air circulation but also reduces the risk of disease, leading to a healthier plant overall.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Pelargonium
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-12
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 40 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Black
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, Red, White, Purple
- Flower Size
- 1.78 cm to 2.29 cm
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- All year round