Bird Dancer Geranium Pelargonium 'Bird Dancer' (Dw/st)

Names

• Family

  Geraniaceae.

• Synonyms

  Bird Dancer Geranium, Dancing Pelargonium.

• Common names

  Pelargonium 'Bird Dancer'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as geranium is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingesting large amounts of any part of the plant might cause minor symptoms such as irritation of the mouth, throat, or skin. The essential oils contained in geraniums can potentially cause adverse reactions if consumed in significant quantities, but normal handling or accidental ingestion of small amounts typically does not lead to serious poisoning.

• To pets

  Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a geranium plant, they might display symptoms of poisoning which can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and anorexia. In severe cases, excessive consumption may lead to more serious health issues such as dermatitis or depression of the central nervous system. It is recommended to keep geraniums out of reach of pets and to consult a veterinarian if any signs of toxicity appear after ingestion.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  10

• Native area

  South Africa

General Benefits

• Attractive Foliage: The Pelargonium 'Bird Dancer' has aesthetically pleasing leaves that can add to the visual appeal of gardens or indoor spaces.
• Easy to Grow: This plant is known for being low-maintenance, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those who do not have much time for plant care.
• Drought-Tolerant: The plant is relatively drought-resistant, requiring less frequent watering and coping well in dryer conditions.
• Long Flowering Period: It produces flowers for an extended period, providing colour in the garden for many months.
• Compact Growth: As a dwarf/stunted variety, it is ideal for smaller spaces or containers where room is limited.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Pelargoniums can be used to infuse flavor into sugars and teas, adding a subtle floral taste to culinary creations.
• These plants can be added to homemade potpourris, providing a pleasant scent to a room when dried and mixed with other aromatic botanicals.
• The flowers of the Pelargonium can be frozen in ice cubes to create visually stunning additions to summer drinks.
• When planted in outdoor areas, they can function as natural insect repellents, dissuading mosquitoes and other pests from lingering.
• The leaves of the Pelargonium can be used in creative arts and crafts, such as making botanical prints on paper or fabric.
• Pelargoniums can be planted as part of a pet-friendly garden, as they are typically non-toxic to animals like dogs and cats.
• The vibrant flowers of the Pelargonium can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, offering an eco-friendly coloring option.
• As a plant with a strong structural form, Pelargoniums can be used in landscape design to offer visual interest and contrast to garden greenery.
• Pelargonium flowers can be used in the creation of floral waters or hydrosols, which can impart fragrance and freshness when spritzed in linen closets or on bedding.
• Geranium leaves can be placed in drawers or closets to provide a natural deodorant and deter moths from settling in clothes and linens.

Feng Shui

The Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Geranium is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Endurance and Sturdiness: This plant variety is a dwarf/sturdy type, symbolizing the ability to withstand challenges and the robust nature of enduring hard conditions.
• Adaptability and Versatility: As a cultivar that can grow in different settings, Pelargoniums often represent flexibility and the capacity to succeed in various environments.
• Balanced Beauty: The 'Bird Dancer' essentially captures the grace of birds in motion, which signifies a harmonious balance between form and movement, and this balance can be equated to beauty in life.
• Healing and Restoration: Historically, certain pelargonium species have been used in traditional medicine, so they carry connotations of health and healing.