Geranium Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery' (R/dec)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery' (R/dec), commonly known as a geranium, is a plant with an attractive and distinct appearance. Its foliage is typically lush and bright green, with leaves that are slightly rounded, often with a soft, velvety texture. The edges of the leaves may have a scalloped or serrated look, giving them a decorative contour. The flowers of this geranium are notable for their unique coloration and form. They bloom in clusters, with each individual flower showcasing a rounded shape with five petals. The petals are often vividly colored and may display a range of shades like pinks, reds, purples, or whites. In certain varieties, the petals can have eye-catching patterns, such as streaks, spots, or contrasting borders, adding to the plant's ornamental value. Geraniums like the 'Australian Mystery' are also appreciated for their pleasant fragrance. Their scent can vary, emitting sweet and sometimes lemony or rose-like aromas, which can be a delightful addition to any garden setting or as a potted plant indoors. Overall, the 'Australian Mystery' geranium presents itself as a showy and aromatic plant, with appealing foliage and a charming display of blooms that can add a touch of elegance to the surroundings where it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Australian Mystery Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery'.
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, which include Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery', are not typically considered toxic to humans. They are generally regarded as safe when handled and any toxicity is rare or minimal. If ingested, the plant may cause mild irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. In more sensitive individuals or if consumed in large amounts, symptoms could include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact with the skin can occasionally cause dermatitis in some people.
To pets
Geraniums are considered to be mildly toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of a geranium, it could exhibit symptoms of poisoning, which include vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Cats may also show signs such as ataxia or muscle weakness. The essential oils contained in the plant are typically the cause of these reactions. If you suspect your pet has ingested geranium, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery' provides vibrant floral color and attractive foliage, enhancing garden aesthetics and indoor decor.
- Low Maintenance: It is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and fertilization.
- Pest Resistance: This type of geranium often exhibits resistance to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Drought Tolerance: It can survive periods of low water availability, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Versatility: The plant can be grown both outdoors and indoors, in pots, hanging baskets, or garden beds, offering flexibility in landscaping and home gardening.
- Long Blooming: Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery' typically has a long flowering season, providing color and interest for an extended period.
- Scented Foliage: The leaves can release a pleasing fragrance when brushed against, adding a sensory aspect to its benefits.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its flowers can attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to 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- Pelargoniums can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from green to brown, depending on the mordant used.
- The leaves of Pelargoniums can be infused in water to create a fragrant rinse for pets, leaving their fur with a pleasant scent.
- They can be pressed and included in bookmarks or paper to add a decorative and aromatic touch to personal stationery or gifts.
- As a companion plant in the garden, Pelargoniums may help deter certain pests from more vulnerable plants with their strong scent.
- The leaves are sometimes used in artistic arrangements, such as in potpourri or within picture frames for a botanical aesthetic.
- Pelargonium plant parts can be used in crafts, such as making botanical prints by hammering leaves and flowers onto fabric or paper.
- The plant can be used as a natural insect repellent when the leaves are crushed and rubbed onto the skin, thanks to its essential oils.
- Dried Pelargonium leaves can serve as a subtle aromatic filler in sachets to freshen up drawers and closets.
- The essential oils extracted from Pelargoniums can be added to candles or soaps for a floral fragrance.
- Pelargonium leaves can be used in homemade potpourri mixtures along with other herbs and spices to scent rooms.
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 and Healing: Pelargoniums, commonly known as Geraniums, often symbolize comfort due to their pleasant fragrance, which is believed to have a calming effect.
- Friendship: Given as a gift, Geraniums can represent a wish for deeper friendship or an expression of esteem.
- Good Health: The Geranium is sometimes associated with good health, stemming from its use in traditional medicine and its presence in homes as an air purifier.
- Positive Spirits: The bright and varied colors of Geranium blooms are linked with uplifting emotions and a positive outlook.
WaterGeraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery', require thorough watering when the soil feels dry to the touch, roughly every 7 to 10 days. It's important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. When you water, aim to moisten the soil deeply, using about one gallon of water per plant, making sure excess water drains out of the pot. During the growing season in spring and summer, the frequency of watering may increase due to higher temperatures and sunlight exposure. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to adjust the schedule accordingly.
LightGeraniums prefer bright, indirect light and should be placed in a location where they receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. A spot near an east or west-facing window typically provides ideal light conditions, allowing for morning or afternoon sunlight with some shielding from the intense midday rays. Avoid placing them in harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, or in too much shade, which can impede flowering.
TemperatureGeraniums thrive in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and should not be subjected to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as they are not frost-tolerant. The ideal growing conditions involve providing a cooler temperature at night, ideally between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which helps promote healthy growth and blooming.
PruningGeraniums benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent blooms regularly to promote new growth and more flowers. The best time to prune heavily is in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed to maintain the plant's shape and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeraniums prefer a well-draining soil mix with peat, perlite, and compost in equal parts. The ideal soil pH for Australian Mystery should be around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeraniums should typically be repotted every 1-2 years or when the roots have filled the current pot. Australian Mystery geraniums are no exception.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums, including the Australian Mystery variety, thrive best in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and water when the topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery', commonly known as Regal Pelargonium or Royal Geranium, begins with seed germination, where warmth, light, and moisture trigger the development of the seed into a small seedling. This is followed by the vegetative growth stage, during which the plant develops roots, stems, and leaves through photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, growing larger and stronger. After reaching maturity, the Regal Pelarium enters the flowering stage, producing distinctive and ornamental flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. Following pollination, if it occurs, the plant develops seeds within the spent flowers, completing the reproductive stage. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in cooler climates, with reduced growth to conserve energy. Eventually, the plant will either die after completing its life cycle, typically when conditions become unfavorable, or, if it survives, will repeat the cycle, producing new seeds and starting the process anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For the Pelargonium 'Australian Mystery', also known as Australian Mystery Geranium, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This process is ideally done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. You start by selecting a healthy, non-flowering stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut just below a node with a clean, sharp knife or scissors, then remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top. Allow the cutting to callous for a few hours to reduce the risk of rot. Next, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, ideally one part peat to one part perlite or sand. Water it sparingly and keep the cutting in a warm, brightly lit area, but out of direct sunlight, until it roots, which usually takes a few weeks. Maintaining high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator can help encourage root growth.
