Geranium Pelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupitor' (Z/st)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' is a visually striking plant characterized by its vibrant, showy flowers. It sports large, rounded blossoms that are a rich and saturated pink or magenta, often presenting with dark, contrasting markings on the upper petals which create a stunning display. The flowers cluster at the tips of the stems, adding a burst of color above the foliage. The leaves of the plant are equally as decorative, with a lush green color and a unique zonal pattern that can be darker green, sometimes appearing almost burgundy, adding to the visual interest of the plant. These leaves are broad, slightly heart-shaped, and have a softly scalloped edge, giving them a pleasant, tactile quality. The foliage may release a fragrant scent when brushed or crushed, contributing to the sensory appeal of the plant. Overall, Pelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' has a bushy, well-rounded appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental display in gardens and containers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Geranium, Pelargonium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupiter'.
ToxicityTo humans
Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, are not typically considered highly toxic to humans. However, ingestion could potentially cause minor symptoms in some individuals such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always advisable to keep all plants out of the reach of small children who might ingest the plant material.
To pets
Geraniums can be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The essential oils and some other compounds found in geraniums can cause vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis in pets if ingested. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on or consuming any part of these plants to avoid these symptoms. If you suspect your pet has ingested geranium, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control service immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Adds vibrant color and aesthetic beauty to gardens and indoor spaces with its showy flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it suitable for beginner gardeners or those with busy lifestyles.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, suited for xeriscaping or water-conserving gardens.
- Long Blooming Season: Produces flowers for an extended period, often from spring until frost, offering lasting visual interest.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: Can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Suitable for use in borders, containers, hanging baskets, and as bedding plants.
- Varied Color Options: Comes in a range of flower colors, allowing for personalized garden design and color schemes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye: The petals of geraniums can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from light pinks to deep purples depending on the mordant used.
- Insect repellent sachets: Dried geranium leaves can be placed in sachets and used to repel insects in closets and drawers.
- Mood enhancer: The fragrant leaves of the geranium plant can be placed in bowls around the home to provide a natural, uplifting scent.
- Flavoring agent: The leaves of some geranium varieties are edible and can be used to flavor desserts, jellies, and teas, giving them a subtle floral note.
- Floating centerpiece: The vibrant flowers and leaves can float in water bowls to create natural centerpieces for tables and outdoor gatherings.
- Geranium ice cubes: Freeze the petals in ice cubes to add a decorative touch and a hint of flavor to summertime drinks.
- Crafting botanical prints: Use the leaves and flowers to make botanical prints on paper or fabric for artistic projects.
- Companion planting: Geraniums can be planted in the garden to repel pests from roses and other susceptible plants.
- Homemade potpourri: Dried geranium flowers and leaves can be combined with other dried botanicals to create a fragrant homemade potpourri.
- Decorative cake garnish: Fresh geranium blooms can be used as an organic garnish for cakes and cupcakes, especially for garden-themed events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort: The soft, velvety foliage of Pelargonium, commonly known as Geranium, offers a sense of comfort and tactile soothing, echoing the nurturing aspects of nature.
- Healing: Geraniums are often associated with health and healing, as some species are used in traditional medicine and aromatherapy to enhance well-being.
- Fertility: With their abundant and vivid blossoms, Geraniums symbolize fertility and the creation of new life, mirroring the plant's prolific nature.
- Friendship: The bright and cheerful flowers of Geraniums are sometimes given as gifts to represent friendship and positive wishes.
- Harmony: The balanced shape and the clustered arrangement of Geranium flowers can represent harmony and order in life.
WaterFor the geranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter', it's essential to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, in the growing season, watering once a week with about 16 ounces of water should be sufficient. However, during hot, dry periods, the watering frequency may need to increase to twice a week. In winter, reduce watering further to prevent waterlogging as geraniums are prone to root rot in cool, wet soil. Always avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.
LightGeraniums, including the 'Annsbrook Jupiter', thrive in bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours each day. The best spot for this plant would be in front of an east or south-facing window where it can receive the morning or afternoon sun. If placed outdoors, a sunny spot with some protection from the hottest part of the day is ideal to prevent leaf scorching.
TemperatureThe geranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' prefers a temperature range between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is able to tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods. The ideal conditions would maintain a steady temperature without drastic fluctuations, avoiding exposure to frost and extreme heat.
PruningPruning the geranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms and prune back leggy stems in early spring or as needed to shape the plant. During the growing season, pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' prefers well-draining potting mix combined with perlite or sand to improve aeration. Adequate organic matter like peat or compost enhances fertility. Ideal soil pH for geraniums ranges from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' should generally be repotted every one to two years or when it outgrows its container, opting for a slightly larger pot each time to encourage growth.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Annsbrook Jupiter' thrives in average household humidity levels; too high humidity can promote fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately dry.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade to full sun, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA.
Life cyclePelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupiter', commonly known as geranium, begins its life as a seed. Upon germination, the plant quickly establishes a small rosette of leaves and a primary root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, the geranium develops a strong stem, a more extensive root system, and more leaves, preparing it for photosynthesis and further growth. In the flowering stage, the plant produces vividly colored blooms that attract pollinators, which is essential for the plant's reproductive process. After pollination, seeds are formed, and once mature, they disperse from the parent plant, ready to begin a new life cycle. In colder climates, the plant may enter a period of dormancy during the winter months, slowing its growth until favorable conditions return in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Annsbrook Jupiter', commonly known as geranium, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to propagate geraniums is during late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut just below a node (the point where leaves emerge) using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the bottom leaves to leave a clean stem, which can be dipped in rooting hormone to increase the chances of success. The stem cutting should then be planted in a pot filled with moist potting mix, making sure at least one node is buried where roots can develop. Place the pot in a warm, brightly lit area, but out of direct sunlight, and keep the soil consistently moist until the cutting has rooted, which typically takes a few weeks.
