Geranium Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold' (Min/c)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold', commonly known as geranium, is distinguished by its vibrant foliage and showy blooms. The leaves of this particular geranium variety are usually rounded, with a soft, velvety texture. They often exhibit a zonal pattern, which means they have a circular band of color that contrasts with the rest of the leaf. The colors of the foliage can range from a bright green to sometimes incorporating hints of golden yellow, depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. The geranium blooms stand out for their striking colors and form. The flowers cluster together in what is called an inflorescence, where each cluster can hold multiple individual blossoms. Typically, the flowers present five petals, and these can range in color from white to pinks and even rich reds or purples. The petals might feature patterns such as veining or streaks, and they often have a rounded shape with a slight notch at the tip. Overall, the appearance of Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold' is lush and rounded, with a profusion of leaves and flowers that create a dense, mounded look. The geranium's visual appeal is further enhanced by the bright and cheerful colors of both its foliage and flowers, making it very popular for ornamental gardening and as a decorative outdoor plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Cariboo Gold Geranium, Golden Cariboo Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold' (Min/c).
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, including Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, if ingested in large quantities, they may cause mild irritation of the mouth, throat, or stomach, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
To pets
Geraniums are toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If ingested, they may cause symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious consequences such as kidney failure, especially in cats, so it is important to keep these plants out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a geranium plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold' boasts vibrant, golden-hued flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and indoor spaces.
- Easy Maintenance: This plant is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: It has a high tolerance for dry conditions, which means it doesn't need frequent watering, ideal for xeriscaping and water-conservation gardens.
- Versatility in Landscaping: It can be used in various landscaping settings, such as borders, containers, and as a bedding plant.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the geranium can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Long Blooming Period: It offers a long season of color, often blooming from spring to fall, providing long-lasting visual interest.
- Herbaceous Scent: The foliage often has a pleasant scent that can be enjoyable when planted in walkways or patios where people can brush against it.
- Seasonal Color: Its leaves may present attractive colors in the fall, adding seasonal interest 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- As a natural dye source – The leaves and flowers of the Geranium can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics and yarns, providing a range of colors from green to brown depending on the mordants used.
- Culinary garnish – Geranium petals can add a pop of color and a hint of flavor to salads and desserts, offering an edible decorative element to dishes.
- Insect repellent – The strong scent of Geranium is unpleasant to many insects, making the plant useful for repelling mosquitoes and other pests when placed around outdoor living areas.
- Companion planting – Geraniums are said to help deter certain pests from other plants when grown in close proximity, making them beneficial in vegetable gardens and flower beds.
- Perfumery – The essential oils extracted from the Geranium can be used as a natural fragrance in homemade perfumes and scented products.
- Flavoring agent – Some Geranium species are used to flavor foods such as jellies, teas, and pastries with their citrus or rose-like flavors.
- Photography – The vibrant colors and interesting textures of Geraniums make them excellent subjects for botanical photography and art.
- Emotional support – Caring for Geranium plants can provide a sense of well-being and emotional satisfaction as part of horticultural therapy practices.
- Educational tool – Geraniums can be used to teach children and beginners about plant care, propagation techniques, and the life cycle of plants.
- Artistic inspiration – The varied forms and colors of Geraniums can inspire artists and designers, leading to plant-themed artwork, textiles, and fashion.
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 warm tones of 'Cariboo Gold' geraniums are often associated with comfort and consolation, making them a suitable gift during times of stress or sadness.
- Friendship: Geraniums, in general, can symbolize friendship, and the bright, cheerful blooms of the 'Cariboo Gold' variety may celebrate and strengthen bonds between friends.
- Hospitality: The welcoming nature of the geranium's vibrant flowers is emblematic of hospitality and the enjoyment of social interactions.
- Good Health: The robust nature of geraniums often reflects wishes for good health and a happy life, making them a popular choice for get-well gestures.
- Positive Energy: The 'Cariboo Gold' geranium, with its radiant, golden blooms, can be a symbol of positivity, bringing light and uplifting energy into one's surroundings.
WaterThe Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week. Ensure the soil is evenly moistened but not waterlogged, using about one to two gallons of water, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. Allow any excess water to drain away to avoid root rot. During hot spells or in very dry air, more frequent watering may be needed. Cut back on water during the dormant winter period.
LightGeraniums prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They thrive in a location that receives morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade, avoiding the harsh midday sun which can scorch their leaves. A spot near an east or south-facing window is ideal for indoor geraniums, ensuring they receive the light they need without being exposed to intense direct heat.
TemperatureGeraniums are comfortable in temperatures between 55°F and 80°F, which are ideal for their growth and flowering. They can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 30°F for short periods, but frost can be harmful. In winter, keep indoor geraniums away from drafty windows and ensure they're in a room that stays above 60°F.
PruningPruning geraniums helps to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess, and should be done in early spring or just after the first wave of flowering. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to promote new blooms. Cut back the stems by about one-third to stimulate fresh growth. The best time for a major pruning is late winter before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Cariboo Gold' thrives in a well-draining, loamy soil mix with a pH of 6.0-7.0. A blend of two parts peat moss, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal for providing the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingGeranium 'Cariboo Gold' should typically be repotted every 1-2 years, during spring, to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Cariboo Gold' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to average household conditions; excessive humidity should be avoided.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, and let soil dry slightly between watering.
Outdoor
Full to partial sun; protect from frost; well-draining soil; regular watering.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold', commonly known as Geranium, begins its life cycle when a seed is sown in well-draining soil and germinates, typically in early spring. The seedling stage follows, where the young plant develops true leaves and a root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, it grows stems and more leaves, expanding its size and potentially producing offsets. During the flowering stage, which occurs in late spring to early fall, the Geranium produces clusters of golden-yellow to pale orange flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop and are dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Lastly, in regions with cold winters, Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold' may enter dormancy or die back, requiring protective measures or overwintering indoors to survive until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Fall
Propogation: The Pelargonium 'Cariboo Gold', commonly known as geranium, is often propagated by stem cuttings. This method is popular due to its simplicity and high success rate. To propagate geraniums, you should select a healthy, non-flowering stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut the stem just below a node, where the leaf joins the stem, using a sharp, clean knife or scissors. Remove any lower leaves to expose a couple of nodes. This stem cutting can then be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, though this step is optional. Finally, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm area with indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted.
