Hardy Geranium Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' (PBR)
ABOUT
Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' is a charming perennial that boasts an abundance of distinctly patterned flowers. These blooms are characterized by their soft pink petals, which are gently kissed with deeper rose-pink veins running throughout, creating an enchanting, blush-like effect that resembles the delicate shell patterning of a turtle, hence the name. The petals form a rounded shape, and they are slightly ruffled at the edges, giving each flower a quaint, romantic appearance. These flowers cluster atop a mound of luscious green foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, with a slightly serrated edge, and they have a luxurious, velvety texture. Overall, the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' contributes a whimsical touch to any garden space, with its delightful floral display and attractive, verdant leaves creating a picturesque scene.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Blushing Turtle Geranium, Hardy Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Blushing Turtle' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, including the 'Blushing Turtle' variety, are generally not considered toxic to humans. However, ingesting any part of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. Symptoms of ingestion may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but serious health consequences are rare.
To pets
Geraniums, including the 'Blushing Turtle' cultivar, are known to be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion can lead to more severe reactions, so it is important to prevent your pets from consuming any part of the plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested geranium, contact your veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds color and texture to gardens with its unique pink flowers and lush foliage.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners at all experience levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers can attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Long Blooming Period: Blooms from late spring to early fall, providing extended color in the garden.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as a ground cover, offering various landscaping uses.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be eaten by deer, protecting the overall aesthetic of the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The petals of the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be used to create a soft, pink natural dye for fabrics and yarns.
- Photography prop: With its delicate pink flowers, the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can serve as a beautiful prop or background in garden photography.
- Garden art: Dried Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' flowers can be incorporated into crafts, such as pressed flower art or botanical collages.
- Plant-insect relationship studies: Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be used in educational settings to show students how certain insects are attracted to or repelled by specific plants.
- Edible arrangements: Although not commonly consumed, the petals of the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be used as a decorative, non-toxic addition to some culinary presentations.
- Soap making: The petals of the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be included in handcrafted soaps for their color and gentle texture.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried petals of the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can serve as a biodegradable confetti option for celebrations.
- Culinary garnish: Flowers from the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be frozen in ice cubes to add a touch of elegance to beverages at special events.
- Floral sachets: Dried Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' flowers can be used within sachets to impart a subtle fragrance to linens and clothing.
- Companion planting: Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can be planted among vegetables in a garden to add beauty and might potentially help in pest control, despite the lack of robust evidence for this use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGeraniums are often associated with positive energy in Feng Shui, as their rounded leaves can symbolize abundance and their bright flowers can bring vibrant, uplifting energy. To use Geraniums according to Feng Shui, place them in the wealth area of your home or garden to attract prosperity or in the family area to promote health and harmony.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Geraniums are perennials which means they can live for several years, symbolizing endurance through time and long life.
- Friendship: Often used in bouquets to represent companionship, the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' can signify close bonds and positive relationships.
- Happiness: With their bright and cheerful flowers, geraniums are associated with happiness and positive vibes, making them a good symbol for joy.
- Good Health: Historically, geraniums have been used in folk medicine, leading to their association with well-being and good health.
WaterThe common name for Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' is Hardy Geranium. Hardy Geraniums should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In dry conditions, increase watering to twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. Adjust the frequency to less often during cooler months or when rainfall is adequate. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
LightHardy Geraniums prefer full sun to partial shade. They thrive best when provided with morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hot climates. An east- or west-facing garden spot is ideal, ensuring the plant receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
TemperatureHardy Geraniums are cold-tolerant and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F, but the ideal growing range is between 65°F and 75°F. They can also withstand summer heat up to around 85°F. Plant vigor and flowering might decline if temperatures consistently fall outside of these ranges.
PruningPruning Hardy Geraniums promotes bushier growth and more blooms. Cut back the plant by up to one-third after the first wave of flowering to encourage a second flush. The best time for this heavier pruning is midsummer, after the initial blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for hardy Geranium, also known as ‘Blushing Turtle,’ should be well-draining and loamy with added organic matter such as compost. A soil pH ranging from 5.8 to 6.3 is optimal for these geraniums, ensuring they can access necessary nutrients effectively.
RepottingHardy Geraniums like ‘Blushing Turtle’ typically require repotting every 2-3 years or when they become root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Humidity & MistingHardy Geraniums, including ‘Blushing Turtle,’ are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do not require a specific humidity to thrive outdoors. Indoor humidity should be average and not too dry to mimic outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light and moderately moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, well-drained soil; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium 'Blushing Turtle' begins its life cycle with seed germination, where warmth and moisture prompt the seeds to sprout roots and shoots. The seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing a rosette of leaves and a root system. During the vegetative stage, the plant grows larger and produces more foliage, preparing for flowering. After reaching maturity, the Geranium 'Blushing Turtle' enters the flowering stage, producing pink flowers with darker veining throughout the summer months. After pollination, the flowers develop into seedpods, which eventually dry and release seeds for dispersal. The plant may then enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For Geranium 'Blushing Turtle', a popular and effective method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This is often done in late spring to early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy stem with at least three nodes and cut just below a node using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. The cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches in length (10 to 15 centimeters). Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Next, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel to promote root growth, and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting well and place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until roots establish and new growth is evident, which typically takes a few weeks.
