Cranesbill Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher'
ABOUT
The Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' is a striking perennial plant known for its vibrant and colorful appearance. This type of geranium, commonly known as cranesbill, sports a mound of deeply-lobed, rich green foliage that provides a lush backdrop for its flowers. Throughout the blooming season, it produces a profusion of eye-catching blooms. The petals are typically a bold pink or magenta shade, often adorned with darker veining that radiates out from the flower's center, accentuating the intricacy of the bloom's structure. The flower's center itself may have a contrasting hue, such as a deeper purple or blue which draws in the eye, giving the plant its 'eye-catching' reputation. At the heart of each bloom, the stamens are prominent, adding another layer of interest and color. The overall effect is a vibrant display that is both lively and attractive. The geranium's flowers stand out against the soft texture of the slightly hairy leaves, which may turn to reddish tones as the cooler weather sets in, providing extended visual interest beyond the flowering period. These geraniums are often planted in groups or drifts, where their flowers create a sea of color that can enliven any garden space. Their bright, showy blooms, combined with the lush foliage, make the Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of enduring color to their landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Cranesbill, Hardy Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher'
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, such as the Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not cause severe symptoms. However, eating large amounts could potentially cause minor gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or diarrhea. It's always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential individual allergies or sensitivities that could lead to adverse reactions.
To pets
Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, particularly to dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a Geranium plant, it could exhibit symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, and depression. In severe cases, geranium ingestion can lead to dermatitis or allergic reactions. Pet owners should ensure these plants are kept out of reach of their animals and seek veterinary care if they suspect their pet has ingested part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Features variegated leaves that add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Colorful Blooms: Produces vibrant flowers that can enhance the aesthetic of any outdoor space.
- Long Flowering Period: Offers a lengthy display of blossoms throughout its flowering season.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, can withstand periods of low rainfall, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Pest Resistant: Typically resists common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Deer Resistant: Often overlooked by deer, which helps to prevent damage to the plant and garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, promoting pollination.
- Versatile Planting Options: Suitable for use in borders, containers, and as ground cover, offering diverse landscaping possibilities.
- Hardy Plant: Exhibits a good level of hardiness, making it capable of enduring through various climatic conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Geranium can be crushed and infused in oil to create a fragrant potpourri oil that can be used to scent homemade potpourri mixes.
- Dried Geranium petals can be used as a natural dye to provide a soft, pink hue to fabrics or handmade papers.
- When planted in vegetable gardens, Geraniums can help repel certain types of pests, making them a natural form of pest management.
- The leaves of the Geranium can be used to add a decorative touch to desserts or cocktails when used as edible garnishes.
- Geranium can be used in crafting, where the leaves and flowers may be pressed and used in floral crafts, like homemade bookmarks or cards.
- The essential oil sourced from Geranium leaves can be mixed with baking soda to make a non-toxic carpet freshener.
- Used in aroma sachets, dried Geranium leaves can be placed in closets and drawers to impart a pleasant fragrance to linens and clothing.
- The vibrant colors of the Geranium flowers can be used for artistic purposes, such as making natural inks for painting or calligraphy.
- Geranium leaves can be infused in water to create a flavored water that has a unique and refreshing taste.
- In photography, Geraniums can serve as an attractive foreground or background subject due to their striking colors and shapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGeraniums can be used to promote positive energy and balance in a home or garden. In Feng Shui, they are thought to attract good health, foster love, and prevent negative energies. You may place geraniums in the southwest area to enhance relationships and love prospects, or use them by the entrance to ensure that the energy entering the home is pure and beneficial.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Health: Geraniums, in general, have been used in traditional medicine and are believed to have health-promoting properties.
- Friendship: They are often given as gifts to convey wishes of happiness and good health to a friend.
- Positive Emotions: The bright and varied colors of geranium flowers are associated with positivity and upliftment.
- Fertility: Some cultures see geraniums as symbols of fertility and reproduction.
- Protection: Geraniums are sometimes planted to keep away evil spirits and negative energies, symbolizing protection.
WaterThe common name for Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' is cranesbill geranium. Water cranesbill geraniums deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. A thorough watering every 7 to 10 days should be sufficient, adjusting for rainfall, with each plant typically requiring about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, whereas in cooler, wetter weather, you can water less often. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot diseases, and aim to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out over the course of the day.
LightCranesbill geraniums prefer full sun to partial shade, with the ideal location offering morning sunlight and afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates. They thrive with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, which encourages robust growth and abundant flowering. However, in regions with very intense sun, providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureCranesbill geraniums grow best in temperatures ranging between 55°F and 75°F. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they should not be exposed to freezing temperatures below 32°F, as frost can damage the plant. During extreme heat above 90°F, cranesbill geraniums may experience stress, so providing some shade and adequate water can help them through these periods.
PruningPrune cranesbill geraniums to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to shape the plant, which encourages a bushier growth habit and more blooms. Pruning is best done in early spring or after the plant has finished its main flowering cycle. Cut back up to one-third of growth to rejuvenate leggy plants. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can be done regularly throughout the growing season to promote continuous blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Cranesbill 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' thrives in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, in a mixture that also includes sharp sand for improved drainage. The ideal pH range for this geranium is neutral to slightly acidic, between 5.8 and 7.2.
RepottingCranesbills such as the 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and allow for growth. The best time to repot is in spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingThe Cranesbill 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' prefers average to moderate humidity levels and does not require special humidity considerations, making it well-suited for typical home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, shelter from strong winds, in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in a moist, well-draining soil environment under warm conditions. After germination, the seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of the plant's first set of true leaves. As the plant enters the vegetative growth phase, it develops a more extensive root system and a robust foliage structure. The geranium then enters the flowering stage, producing distinctive pink to purple flowers with unique patterns that attract pollinators. Following pollination, if it occurs, the plant may produce fruit in the form of a capsule containing seeds, which can then be dispersed to start a new generation. The plant is perennial, so after the flowering period subsides, it can continue to grow and will return the following season in suitable climates, with dormancy during colder months.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium 'Elworthy Eyecatcher', commonly known as a type of hardy geranium or cranesbill, can be most effectively propagated through division, which is best done in spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring that you keep a good amount of root with each section. Using a sharp knife or spade, split the clump into smaller clumps, each with several shoots and a healthy supply of roots. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them approximately 18 inches (45.72 cm) apart to ensure that they have room to grow. Water the new plants thoroughly and maintain consistent moisture while they establish in their new locations. This method of division helps to rejuvenate older plants and can increase the volume of your geranium plantings efficiently.
