Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon' does not have a widely recognized common name due to its specific cultivar status. Therefore, a common name cannot be provided. Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon'
ABOUT
The plant in question, commonly known as a Geranium, is a hybrid variety typically revered for its ornamental features. Its appearance is characterized by a lush foliage that presents leaves with a distinct shape that may range from deeply lobed to more rounded forms. The foliage often showcases a palette of greens that can be rich and dark, sometimes bearing contrasting patterns or variegation depending on the variety. The Geranium blooms are notable for their vibrant colors, which can include shades of pink, purple, blue or white. Flowers are usually borne in clusters and can be single or double, with petals that can boast a velvety texture or a more traditional, smoother surface. The blooms may also have distinctive veining or eye-catching blotches of color which contribute to the plant's ornamental charm. The plant exudes a certain grace through its growth habit, which may range from erect to trailing, ideal for various garden settings or containers. The unique cultivar 'Muldoon' suggests personalized characteristics that would typically distinguish it from other Geraniums in terms of flower color, leaf pattern, or other specific ornamental traits.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
No common names available.
Common names
Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon'.
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, the most common name for plants belonging to the genus Geranium, are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Most species, including garden varieties like the Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon', do not contain highly toxic compounds and are not known to cause serious harm if ingested. Ingesting parts of these plants may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but serious poisoning is rare. It is always advisable to practice caution and avoid eating plants that are not meant for consumption, as individual reactions can vary.
To pets
Geraniums are known to variably affect pets, particularly cats and dogs. While Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon' is not typically listed as highly toxic, ingestion can cause mild to moderate symptoms in pets. Symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, or dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion can lead to more serious effects such as ataxia or other neurological symptoms, but this would generally require consumption of larger amounts. Pet owners should ensure that their pets do not have access to geraniums and should consult a veterinarian if they suspect their pet has ingested part of a geranium plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors and textures to gardens and landscapes with its attractive foliage and colorful blooms.
- Habitat Support: Serves as a food source for pollinators like bees and butterflies, thus supporting local ecosystems.
- Culinary Use: Some geranium species' leaves are used to flavor foods and drinks, although this may not specifically apply to Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon'.
- Low Maintenance: Typically easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established in the right environment.
- Drought Tolerance: Can withstand periods without water, which is beneficial in climates with water restrictions or drought conditions.
- Pest Resistance: Often resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pest control methods.
- Soil Erosion Control: Can help prevent soil erosion in gardens and landscapes due to its root structure stabilizing the soil.
- Versatility: Suitable for use in containers, borders, and bedding, offering flexibility in landscape design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Craft: Geranium petals can be used in flower pressing and for crafting natural dyes for fabrics and papers.
- Photography Subjects: Due to their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, geraniums make an excellent subject for macro photography.
- Natural Insect Repellant: The strong scent of geraniums can deter various insects and can be used in gardens to protect other plants.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of geraniums can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Floral Arrangements: Geraniums can be used in cut floral arrangements, providing a lasting bloom and fragrance to bouquets.
- Scented Oils: The essential oils extracted from geranium leaves can be used in aromatherapy and for making scented candles.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried geranium petals can serve as an environmentally friendly option for confetti at celebrations.
- Educational Resource: Geraniums can be used to teach students about plant biology and the process of pollination.
- Herbal Sachets: Dried geranium leaves can be used to create herbal sachets that provide a pleasant scent in drawers and closets.
- Wedding Decor: Geranium flowers can add a touch of natural beauty to wedding venues, either in potted arrangements or woven into decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unity and Coherence: The hybrid nature of Geranium × monacense 'Muldoon' symbolizes the coming together of different elements to form a harmonious whole.
- Balance: The balanced growth and even proportions of the plant signify equilibrium in life.
- True Friendship: Geraniums are traditionally associated with friendship, and this variety's enduring qualities emphasize long-lasting relationships.
- Good Health: Many geraniums are believed to promote health and wellness, and this particular cultivar is no exception, symbolizing the wish for robust health.
- Foresight: The plant's ability to grow in a variety of conditions is linked to the anticipation of future needs and planning accordingly.
WaterHardy Geraniums, like Geranium × monacense 'Muldoon', prefer consistent moisture but don't fare well with overwatering. You should water your Geranium 'Muldoon' thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this might work out to watering once every week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary, such as every three to four days. Be careful to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot. A rough estimate would be about one to two gallons per square yard every week, adjusting as needed for temperature and rainfall.
LightGeranium 'Muldoon' thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location offers morning sunlight and afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates, which can help prevent the leaves from scorching. Indoors, a bright window with indirect light is preferable. Avoid deep shade as this will reduce flowering and can lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureGeranium 'Muldoon' can handle a wide temperature range but grows best when temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. It will survive light frosts and can tolerate temperatures down to approximately 20°F but should be protected from harsh, prolonged freezing conditions. Conversely, temperatures above 80°F may stress the plant and can result in reduced flowering.
PruningPruning your Geranium 'Muldoon' encourages bushy growth and prevents it from becoming leggy. Prune in early spring to promote vigorous new growth and after the first flush of flowers to encourage a second bloom. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly throughout the blooming season to maintain a tidy appearance and promote further flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCranesbill, or Hardy Geranium, thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter with a pH ranging from 5.8 to 6.3. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and compost is ideal to provide adequate drainage and nutrients.
RepottingCranesbills generally need repotting every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot. It's best to repot in spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingCranesbill prefers moderate humidity levels, although they are fairly adaptable. An average room humidity of 40-60% is suitable for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Cranesbill in bright, indirect light and water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant Cranesbill in part shade to full sun with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon', commonly known as 'Muldoon' cranesbill, begins its life as a seed that germinates in spring when soil temperatures rise and moisture is available. The seedling soon emerges, developing into a small rosette of leaves while establishing a root system. Following the vegetative stage, it enters the flowering period in late spring or early summer, producing distinctive flowers that attract pollinators for reproduction. After pollination, the plant forms seed capsules, which eventually release seeds once they mature by late summer or autumn. During the fall, the plant begins to show reduced growth and may die back, entering dormancy over the winter, especially in climates with colder temperatures. The cycle repeats the following spring, with the plant resuming growth from overwintering rootstocks or self-sown seedlings.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Geranium × monacense var. monacense 'Muldoon', commonly known as cranesbill, is through stem cuttings. This is usually done in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. A gardener will select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) piece just below a node, removing any lower leaves. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development and placed in a pot filled with moist potting soil or a mix of peat and perlite. The cutting should be kept under indirect light and maintained at a consistent moisture level until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted into the garden.
