Scented Geranium Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' (Min/d)
ABOUT
The Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' (Min/d), commonly known as a type of Geranium, is a highly ornamental plant, treasured for its visually striking features. It showcases an attractive foliage, typically bearing rich, green leaves that often have a unique zonal pattern marked by darker bands, creating a lovely contrast on each leaf. The leaves are also rounded with a scalloped or lobed edge, adding to the plant's texture. The Geranium 'Francis Parrett' produces clusters of flowers, each composed of multiple individual blossoms that form a rounded inflorescence. These flowers are characterized by their vibrant and vivid hues, which can range across a spectrum of colors depending on the particular variety and cultivation conditions. The flowers also have distinct rounded petals, which can sometimes have a velvety texture and might feature intricate veining or patterns that add depth and interest to the overall appearance. This variety of Geranium is popular among gardeners and plant enthusiasts for its long-lasting blooming period, providing a pop of color in garden beds, containers, or as hanging basket specimens. Its charming appearance is enhanced by the fact that it can flower continuously throughout the growing season under adequate care, and it often becomes a focal point wherever it is placed due to its appealing and lush aesthetic.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Geranium, Zonal Geranium, Garden Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett'.
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, if ingested in large amounts, they might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Contact with the skin can sometimes result in dermatitis or skin irritation for sensitive individuals. It is always a good practice to wash hands after handling plants and to avoid consuming any plant parts unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Ingestion of this plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, and dermatitis. In rare cases, excessive consumption might lead to more severe symptoms including hypothermia, ataxia, and in extreme instances, death. Pet owners should promptly consult a veterinarian if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of a geranium plant.
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' adds vibrant color to gardens and living spaces with its striking blooms.
- Drought Tolerance: This variety is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for low-water gardens and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Ease of Care: Geraniums are known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive.
- Long Blooming Period: They have a long flowering season, providing color and interest for an extended period.
- Versatility: Geraniums can be planted in garden beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets, offering flexible design options.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
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 fabric dye: The vibrant colors of the geranium petals can be used to dye fabrics, adding a soft hue to natural fibers.
- In aromatherapy: Geranium oil, extracted from the leaves of the plant, is used in aromatherapy for its soothing effect on the mind and ability to relieve stress.
- As a flavoring agent: The leaves can be used to infuse sugars or salts with a subtle rose-like flavor, suitable for culinary purposes.
- In homemade cosmetics: Geranium leaves can be infused in water to create a natural toner or added to creams for their astringent properties.
- As companion planting: Planting geraniums among vegetables can help to repel certain pests due to their strong scent, thus serving as a natural insect repellent.
- For crafts and decorations: The bright and colorful flowers and leaves of the geranium can be used for creating potpourri or included in decorative wreaths and arrangements.
- In homemade cleaning products: The scented oil from geranium leaves can be incorporated into homemade cleaning solutions for a natural fragrance and its potential antibacterial qualities.
- As an artistic medium: The juice from geranium petals can be used as watercolor paint or to make natural ink for a unique artistic expression.
- For educational purposes: Geranium plants can be used as an easily accessible resource for students to study plant biology and the process of photosynthesis.
- In pet care: A mild infusion of geranium leaves can sometimes be used to gently repel fleas from pets' bedding due to the essential oils it contains.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, often symbolize hope. Their hardy nature and ability to flourish in various conditions make them emblematic of resilience and the constant presence of hope in difficult times.
- Good Health: Geraniums are sometimes associated with good health, likely due to their use in traditional medicine and the belief that their presence can promote a healthy environment.
- Friendship: Giving a geranium as a gift has been associated with offering the warmth of companionship, suggesting the plant's role in fostering friendship.
- Happiness: The bright and varied colors of geranium flowers are thought to bring positivity and cheerfulness, making them a symbol of happiness.
WaterGeraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development. Typically, watering once a week with about 4-6 gallons for outdoor plants and 8-12 onzes for potted specimens is adequate, but this may vary depending on climate conditions and soil type. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering; it should be dry to the touch. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot diseases and blossom rot. During the winter months, reduce the amount of water as the plant's growth slows down.
LightGeraniums need bright, indirect light or partial shade to thrive. The best spot for a Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' is near a window with morning sunlight and protection from the harsh afternoon sun. If outdoors, a location that receives morning light and dappled shade in the afternoon is ideal. Too little light can lead to leggy growth, while too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureGeraniums like the Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive minimum temperatures of 55 degrees and maximum temperatures up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They are not cold-hardy, so if temperatures fall below 55 degrees, it is important to move them indoors or provide protection. The ideal temperature range ensures healthy growth and abundant flowering.
PruningPruning geraniums like the Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Prune back leggy stems and deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new growth. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before active growth resumes. Pruning can be done every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season to maintain shape and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeraniums, including Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', thrive in a soil mix composed of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil, which ensures good drainage and aeration. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingGeraniums should be repotted annually, typically in the spring before active growth begins to ensure they are not constrained by pot size and have fresh soil for nutrients.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums prefer moderate ambient humidity but are quite adaptable. They do well in typical household humidity levels, avoiding excessively high humidity to prevent fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and keep indoors.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, protect from frost, ensure well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA.
Life cycleThe Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', also known as a type of Geranium, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in warm, well-drained soil and given adequate sunlight and moisture, germinates to produce small seedlings. These seedlings develop true leaves and continue to grow, eventually forming a bushy plant. Throughout the spring and summer, the Geranium blooms, displaying its vibrant and colorful flowers that attract various pollinators. After pollination, the flowers fade and the plant produces seeds, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to fall and self-sow. During the fall and into winter, the plant enters a dormant phase, particularly in cooler climates, where it may die back and require protection or be brought indoors. With proper care, including pruning and repotting if grown in containers, the Geranium can survive for several years, going through cycles of growth, blooming, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Francis Parrett', also known as geranium, is typically propagated through stem cuttings, which is the most popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. To propagate geraniums via stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long and cut it just below a node using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the bottom leaves to expose a short length of stem, which will be planted. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone to increase the chance of successful root development. Then, insert the stem cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix or a rooting medium like perlite or vermiculite. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight until the cutting has rooted, which usually takes about 4 to 8 weeks. Once roots have established, the new geranium plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the garden.
