Scented Geranium Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder' (A)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder' is a visually striking plant known for its ornamental qualities. The foliage of this plant is typically lush and dense, with leaves that are subtly heart-shaped and may carry a soft, velvety texture. They are generally green, often with a unique zonal pattern of darker green or bronzy shades, which adds to the visual interest of the plant. The flowers of 'Cottenham Wonder' are particularly showy and abundant, usually appearing in clusters atop tall, sturdy stems that rise from the base of the plant. These blossoms can be described as large and rounded, with petals that have a ruffled or frilly appearance, adding to their charm. They exhibit vibrant colors that can range from deep pinks to purples and may have intricate vein patterns or contrasting blotches and margins, which highlight their color and form. All in all, 'Cottenham Wonder' makes a beautiful and full-bodied display with its attractive foliage and striking, colorful blooms. It is often celebrated for its decorative appeal and the bright splash of color it provides when grown in gardens or containers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Cottenham Wonder Geranium, Cottenham Wonder Pelargonium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder'.
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, such as Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Despite being non-toxic, sensitive individuals may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have skin contact with the plant or its sap. Ingesting parts of the plant is not advisable, but typically it is not expected to cause any severe poisoning or serious health consequences.
To pets
Geraniums, of which the Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder' is a variety, are known to be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of this plant, they may exhibit symptoms of toxicity which can include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, and dermatitis. In rare cases, more severe reactions such as hypothermia or ataxia may occur. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting this plant and to consult a veterinarian if they do.
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
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appearance: Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder' adds visual interest to gardens and homes with its attractive foliage and flowers.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, many pelargoniums, including 'Cottenham Wonder', are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Versatile Planting Options: This plant can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or directly in the ground, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Pest Resistance: Pelargoniums are known to be resistant to a variety of common garden pests.
- Long Blooming Period: 'Cottenham Wonder' can provide colorful blooms for an extended period, often from spring to fall, enhancing garden aesthetics throughout the seasons.
- Attracts Pollinators: While not a primary benefit, some pelargoniums 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- Companion Planting: Geraniums can be planted alongside a variety of other plants to deter pests, thanks to their strong scent.
- Natural Dye: The petals of geraniums can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper crafts.
- Flavoring: The leaves of some geraniums are edible and can be used to flavor jellies, cakes, and teas with a subtle floral note.
- Garden Aesthetics: Geraniums, with their colorful blooms, are often used to enhance the visual appeal of gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Essential Oils: The scent of geranium leaves can be extracted to create essential oils for use in aromatherapy and homemade perfumes.
- Potpourri: Dried geranium leaves and flowers can be included in potpourri mixes to add fragrance to a room.
- Artwork: Pressed geranium flowers can be used in botanical art pieces, such as framed flower arrangements or bookmarks.
- Cooking Garnish: Edible geranium flowers can be used as a decorative and flavorful garnish on salads and desserts.
- Seasonal Decorations: Geraniums can be arranged in pots and baskets for festive decorations, such as during Christmas, when red and white varieties are popular.
- Photography: Due to their vibrant colors and varieties, geraniums make excellent subjects for botanical photography.
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 Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder', commonly known as Geranium, is often associated with comfort due to its homely and familiar feel, as well as its soothing fragrance that can bring a sense of calmness.
- Friendship: Geraniums are sometimes given as gifts to signify friendship and positive relationships, as they are easy to care for and long-living plants, representing enduring connections.
- Health: Geraniums are thought to symbolize good health, with some varieties having been used in traditional remedies and their essential oils marketed for promoting physical well-being.
- Good Luck: Carrying the belief from folk traditions that geraniums can ward off evil spirits, they are also considered to bring good luck to homes where they are grown.
- Folly or Stupidity: In Victorian floriography, geraniums sometimes represented folly or stupidity, as they were seen as an easy-to-grow plant that didn't require much skill to maintain, thus possibly reflecting a lack of sophistication.
WaterGeraniums, like Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder', prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently. The goal is to allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings, generally about once a week. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water with approximately 8-16 ounces per plant, depending on size and environmental conditions, ensuring thorough saturation of the soil without waterlogging. Cutting back on watering frequency in fall and winter is essential as the plant enters dormancy. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so it is vital to assess the soil moisture before adding more water.
LightGeraniums thrive in bright, indirect light and can also benefit from some direct sunlight, making an east or west-facing windowsill an ideal spot. They should receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. However, during the hottest part of the day in summer, protection from intense direct sunlight is necessary to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureGeraniums perform best in temperate conditions, with ideal temperatures ranging from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night, between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand a minimum temperature of about 30 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods but are not frost-tolerant. High temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and warrant additional care.
PruningPruning geraniums promotes bushier growth, removes dead or yellowing leaves, and encourages more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming and prune back leggy stems in early spring to rejuvenate the plant. The best time for heavy pruning is just before new growth begins, usually in late winter or early spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Cottenham Wonder' thrives in a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeraniums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and allow room for growth; 'Cottenham Wonder' follows this guideline.
Humidity & Misting'Cottenham Wonder' geraniums prefer average indoor humidity levels, around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place geranium 'Cottenham Wonder' in bright light, away from drafts.
Outdoor
Grow 'Cottenham Wonder' in sunlight to partial shade, and protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder', commonly known as geranium, begins its cycle with seed germination, which occurs in a warm, moist environment, typically in early spring. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop into juvenile plants with characteristic heart-shaped leaves and sturdy stems. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, wherein it grows rapidly and produces more leaves, reaching its full foliage potential. The next phase is the flowering stage, during which the geranium produces vibrant blooms in clusters, usually in shades of pink or red, attracting pollinators. Following pollination, the plant may produce small fruits containing seeds, which can be dispersed to start new plants. Finally, as a perennial in warm climates or an annual in colder regions, the geranium either enters a dormant period to survive the winter or completes its life cycle, dying after seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Pelargonium 'Cottenham Wonder', commonly known as Geranium, is typically propagated during late winter or early spring. The most popular method of propagation for Geraniums is by stem cuttings. To propagate, a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is cut just below a node, where leaves emerge. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is allowed to dry slightly to form a callus. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development and planted in a well-drained potting mix. It is important to maintain high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before planting it out.
