Korean Geranium Geranium koraiense
ABOUT
Geranium koraiense, commonly referred to as Korean geranium, is a perennial plant cherished for its decorative and horticultural features. Typically, this plant displays a rounded form, with dense tufts of foliage that create a lush, green backdrop. The leaves of the Korean geranium are deeply lobed with serrated edges, emanating from the central crown in a radial fashion which gives them a somewhat hand-like appearance. They often display a rich green hue and may have subtle hair-like textures, adding to their visual interest. Come flowering time, the Korean geranium produces an abundance of blooms that stand out against the foliage. The flowers have five rounded petals that radiate from the center like little pinwheels. They usually exhibit a vivid pink or lilac color, often marked with striking veins or darker shades that can enhance their ornamental appeal. The blossoms are typically held aloft on slender stems, hovering above the main body of the plant and creating a soft yet vibrant display. A striking feature of the Korean geranium is the generous flowering period, during which the plant can look quite luxurious due to the contrast between its intense green leaves and the pastel-shaded blooms. This generous display of flowers, combined with the finely textured leaves, makes it a favorite in garden borders, rockeries, and as ground cover, where it adds a splash of color without overwhelming the surrounding vegetation.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Korean Cranesbill
Common names
Geranium eriostemon var. koraiense.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited specific information available about the toxicity of Geranium koraiense, commonly known as Hardy Geranium or Cranesbill, to humans. These plants are generally considered non-toxic and are commonly grown in gardens without any special warnings. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause mild reactions, so it's always best to avoid ingesting plants unless you are certain of their safety and have identified them correctly.
To pets
Geranium koraiense, commonly referred to as Hardy Geranium or Cranesbill, is not known to be toxic to pets. These plants are often used in gardens and are not typically associated with pet poisoning. However, individual animals might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest significant amounts of the plant, as with any non-food item. It is always prudent to monitor pets and ensure they do not consume plants to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Geranium koraiense adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its attractive foliage and bright flowers.
- Low maintenance: This plant typically requires minimal care, making it a good choice for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Geranium koraiense can withstand periods of dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Groundcover: Its spreading habit can quickly cover bare spots in the landscape, preventing soil erosion and suppressing weeds.
- Seasonal interest: It provides visual interest throughout its blooming season, with some species offering autumn foliage color change.
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 and leaves of Geranium can be used to produce a variety of dyes for textiles in shades of green, brown, and blue.
- Companion planting: Geraniums are known to repel certain insects, making them beneficial companions in vegetable gardens or among other flower species.
- Essential oils: While not medical, the essential oil of Geranium can be used for its fragrance in aromatherapy or as a natural perfume ingredient.
- Culinary use: Some species of geranium leaves are edible and can impart a subtle flavor to desserts like cakes and jellies when used as a garnish.
- Art and craft: Geranium leaves and flowers can be used in pressed flower art to create decorative items such as bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed artwork.
- Garden border plants: Geraniums are often used as border plants in gardens due to their dense foliage and vibrant flowers that delineate spaces beautifully.
- Photography: The striking blooms of Geranium make them a popular choice for botanical photography and floral arrangements.
- Scent sachets: Dried Geranium leaves can be used to create natural scent sachets that can freshen up drawers and wardrobes.
- Teaching tool: Geraniums can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, pollination, and the lifecycle of flowering plants.
- Natural potpourri: Dried Geranium flowers and leaves can be mixed with other natural ingredients to create potpourri that adds a pleasant fragrance to a room.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Health and Healing: Geraniums are often associated with health and the healing process because of their hardy nature and ability to thrive in many conditions.
- Protection: In some folklore, geraniums are thought to ward off negative energies and spirits, providing protection to those who keep them.
- Fertility and Regeneration: With their lush growth and abundant foliage, geraniums symbolize fertility, regeneration, and the renewal of life.
- Friendship: Sharing a geranium plant or its cuttings is seen as a gesture of friendship, symbolizing the sharing of joy and good emotions.
- Peace and Harmony: The pleasant scent and appearance of geraniums are believed to foster an atmosphere of peace and harmony, making them suitable for serene environments.
WaterHardy geraniums, including the Geranium koraiense, prefer to be watered regularly, particularly during dry periods, but do not appreciate waterlogged soil. It's essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon per plant. During the hottest parts of the summer, you may need to increase the frequency to twice a week if the weather is particularly dry or hot. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant goes dormant, ensuring the soil doesn't remain consistently wet to prevent root rot.
LightGeranium koraiense thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. Aim to provide a location where the plant can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial in areas with very intense sun. An east or west-facing spot that offers bright, indirect light for part of the day is ideal for promoting healthy growth and flowering.
TemperatureGeranium koraiense, commonly known as hardy geranium, does well in a wide range of temperatures and is quite cold-hardy. The plant can survive winter temperatures as low as 20°F, but it generally prefers the growing season temperatures to be between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. During hot summers, ensure adequate watering to prevent stress when temperatures exceed 85°F.
PruningPruning Geranium koraiense, also known as hardy geranium, encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering throughout the season. In early spring or after the first flush of blooms has faded, cut back the entire plant by one-third to one-half to rejuvenate it and encourage a second wave of blooms. Prune any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHardy Geraniums thrive in a well-draining soil mix composed of garden soil, peat moss, compost, and perlite at a 2:1:1:1 ratio. The ideal pH range for the Korean Cranesbill, a common name for Geranium koraiense, is slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.8 and 7.2.
RepottingKorean Cranesbill should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. It is less about a strict schedule and more about the plant's growth rate and root development.
Humidity & MistingThe Korean Cranesbill prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of indoor humidity levels without the need for specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with well-draining soil and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Geranium koraiense, commonly known as Korean geranium, begins with seed germination, occurring in the spring when soil temperatures warm and moisture is abundant. After germination, seedlings emerge and establish a small rosette of basal leaves, entering a vegetative growth phase during which the plant develops its foliage and root system. As the plant matures, typically within the same growing season, it transitions to the flowering stage, producing distinctive flowers that may attract pollinators for successful reproduction. Once pollinated, flowers develop into fruit containing seeds, which are then dispersed by various means, including wind, animals, or manual collection. In the post-reproductive stage, the above-ground parts of the Korean geranium may die back, especially in regions with colder winters, while the rootstock can survive underground to sprout again in the following spring. This perennial herbaceous plant completes its life cycle by repeating these stages each year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Geranium koraiense, commonly known as Hardy Korean Geranium, is typically propagated through seed sowing or vegetative methods such as dividing the plant or taking stem cuttings. However, the most popular method for propagating Hardy Korean Geranium is by division. This is often done in spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate it into smaller sections, each with several shoots and accompanying root systems. Replant the divisions promptly, maintaining the same soil level as before, and water them well. Divisions should be spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to give each new plant enough space to grow. This simple process allows the gardener to increase their stock of plants while ensuring that the new plants will be true to the parent's characteristics.
