Geranium Pelargonium 'Bolero' (U)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Bolero' (U), commonly known as geranium, is a visually striking plant well-known for its lush and vibrant appearance. This cultivar showcases a profusion of flowers that are rich in color, typically presenting shades that range from deep pinks to reds or purples. The blooms may also feature intricate veining or eye-catching patterns that further enhance their appeal. These flowers are clustered atop sturdy stems that rise elegantly above the foliage. The leaves of the geranium are equally attractive, with a soft, velvety texture and a rich green hue. They may exhibit a rounded or slightly lobed shape, giving them a full and dense appearance. Each leaf is often edged with a subtle hint of darker green or may include delicate contrasting markings that lend an ornate touch to the overall look of the plant. Geraniums are favored for their lengthy blooming period, often providing a continual display of color throughout the growing season. As an added bonus, the leaves of the geranium can sometimes give off a pleasant aroma when brushed or crushed, adding a sensory dimension to its display. Overall, Pelargonium 'Bolero' is a robust and ornamental plant that serves as a vibrant addition to any garden or container planting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Bolero Geranium, Bolero Pelargonium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Bolero'
ToxicityTo humans
The geranium, in general, is not considered highly toxic to humans, but ingesting parts of the plant can potentially cause minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the skin may sometimes cause irritation or an allergic reaction for some individuals. It is always a good practice to keep plants out of reach of children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, particularly to dogs and cats. If ingested, they may cause symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In particular, the essential oils and some other components of the plant can cause a type of poisoning that may lead to gastrointestinal upset and other health issues. Therefore, it is recommended to keep geraniums out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
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- Attractive Blooms: The Pelargonium 'Bolero' produces vibrant and colorful flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and indoor spaces.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, the geranium is capable of tolerating dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Pest Resistant: Typically, geraniums have a natural resistance to common garden pests, which can minimize the need for chemical treatments.
- Versatile Planting: Geraniums can be planted in containers, hanging baskets, or beds, providing flexibility in garden design and use of space.
- Long Flowering Season: With proper care, geraniums can bloom from spring through fall, offering prolonged periods of color and interest.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: While blooming, geraniums can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are important for the health of the ecosystem.
- Provides Ground Cover: Low-growing varieties can act as ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and reduce soil erosion.
- Enhances Outdoor Living Spaces: Geraniums can be used to create a pleasant and welcoming environment on patios, balconies, and other outdoor areas.
- Container Gardening: Ideal for those with limited space, geraniums thrive in pots and can be brought indoors during colder months.
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 in aromatherapy as their leaves are often scented and can be used to create essential oils with a calming effect.
- The essential oil derived from pelargoniums can be included in homemade perfumes for a floral, rose-like fragrance.
- Dried pelargonium leaves can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures to add a pleasant scent to a room.
- The petals of pelargoniums can be used in culinary dishes as an edible decoration or infused in sugars for a subtle flavoring.
- Pelargonium plants can act as natural insect repellents when placed around outdoor seating areas.
- The leaves of pelargoniums can be infused in water to create a natural, non-toxic cleaner with a pleasant scent.
- Pelargonium leaves can be used to add a unique flavor when baking goods, similar to the use of rosewater.
- When pressed, pelargonium flowers can be used in arts and crafts, such as in the decoration of handmade paper or bookmarks.
- As a natural dye, pelargonium petals can be used to color textiles or artisanal crafts.
- Pelargoniums can be used in educational settings such as schools or botanical workshops to teach about plant propagation and horticulture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Pelargonium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Pelargonium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort – Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, often represent comfort due to their familiar and cozy appearance in home gardens.
- Good Health – Geraniums are believed to symbolize good health because of their use in traditional medicine and their ability to repel insects.
- Happiness – The bright and colorful flowers of geraniums are seen as a symbol of happiness and positive emotions.
- Friendship – Geraniums are sometimes given as gifts among friends to represent friendship and kind thoughts.
WaterGeraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Bolero', should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, approximately every 7 to 10 days. It's important to let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. When watering, add water at the base of the plant until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, which might mean using about half a gallon for a large pot every week during active growth periods. During winter, reduce watering frequency to once every two weeks or less, depending on indoor heating conditions.
LightGeraniums like the Pelargonium 'Bolero' prefer bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near an east or south-facing window where the plant can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day is ideal. Avoid direct midday sun in summer, which can scorch the leaves. If the light is too dim, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer blooms.
TemperatureGeraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Bolero', thrive in temperatures between 65 and 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F, but frost will kill the plant. Do not expose geraniums to temperatures exceeding 80°F for prolonged periods, as high heat can impede their growth and flowering.
PruningPruning geraniums like the Pelargonium 'Bolero' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Prune in early spring by cutting back leggy stems to about 4 inches to promote new growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage further blooming. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed to shape the plant and remove any damaged or diseased foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for geranium 'Bolero' is light, well-draining with added compost or peat moss. A suitable pH level for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular potting soil amended with perlite and organic matter will provide the drainage and nutrients required.
RepottingGeranium 'Bolero' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the roots become pot-bound. Early spring, just before the growing season, is the best time to repot this plant.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Bolero' prefers average room humidity levels and does not require high humidity. It thrives in typical household conditions; over 50% can be beneficial, but it is adaptable to lower levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, allow soil to dry out between watering.
Outdoor
Full sun or partial shade, protect from frost, ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Bolero', commonly known as geranium 'Bolero', begins its life as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, initiating the sprouting stage. Following germination, the seedling develops its true leaves and grows into a young plant, entering the vegetative growth phase where it focuses on producing a robust root system and foliage. During the flowering stage, the plant produces vibrant blooms, typically in the warmer months, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flower develops into a fruit that contains seeds, marking the reproductive stage. Once the seeds mature, they are dispersed by various methods, such as wind or animal movement, and upon finding a suitable environment, they can begin the cycle anew by germinating. Over time, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, conserving energy before re-emerging in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Pelargonium 'Bolero', commonly known as geranium, is most effectively propagated through stem cuttings. This process is ideally done in late summer to early fall, allowing for established growth before the cool winter months set in. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering stem of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) is cut just below a node. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new geranium can be progressively acclimatized to more direct sunlight and eventually transplanted outdoors if desired.
