Geranium Pelargonium 'Galilee' (I/d)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Galilee', commonly known as a geranium, is a flowering plant that boasts a lush, bushy appearance with succulent stems and a typically upright habit. The leaves are rounded with a soft, velvety texture and often display a zonal pattern marked by a darker green or sometimes brownish ring. These leaves might also have a serrated or scalloped edge, which adds to their ornate look. The flowers of the Galilee geranium are particularly striking, with clusters known as inflorescences that feature several individual blossoms perched atop long, slender stalks. Each blossom comprises five petals that vary in color from pale pinks to bold reds and purples, often with intricate veining or speckling that enhances the visual appeal. The center of the flowers may show contrasting coloration, highlighting the stamens and providing a focal point within each bloom. Overall, the Galilee geranium is prized for its decorative foliage and showy floral displays which are long-lasting and will typically bloom from late spring throughout the summer and into the fall, if cared for properly. Its attractive appearance makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add vibrant colors and texture to garden beds, borders, and containers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Galilee Geranium, Galilee Pelargonium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Galilee'
ToxicityTo humans
The Pelargonium 'Galilee' commonly known as geranium, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience mild symptoms if they ingest parts of the plant. The most common reactions might include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is advisable to keep plants out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest plant parts.
To pets
Geranium is known to have a level of toxicity to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If a pet ingests geranium, they may exhibit symptoms of poisoning which can include vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, depression, and possibly dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion can lead to more severe reactions and, as such, it is essential to keep geraniums out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary assistance if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
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- Ornamental Appeal: Pelargonium 'Galilee', commonly known as Geranium, is widely appreciated for its vibrant and colorful flowers which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and indoor settings.
- Drought Tolerance: As a hardy and drought-tolerant plant, Geranium is suitable for regions with water scarcity and for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants.
- Versatility: Geraniums can be planted in beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets, making them versatile additions to various landscaping designs.
- Long Blooming Season: With a long blooming period that spans from spring to fall, Geraniums provide sustained color in the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Easy Propagation: Geraniums can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create more plants for use around the garden or to share with others.
- Deer Resistant: These plants are generally unattractive to deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas where deer predation is a problem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: The leaves of the Geranium can be rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes and other insects, albeit it's less effective than commercial repellents.
- Botanical Dye: The flower petals can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or crafts, giving a range of colors from greens to browns, depending on the mordant used.
- Flavoring Agent: Edible varieties of Geranium can be used to flavor sugars, teas, desserts, or jellies with their lemon, rose, or mint-like taste.
- Garden Design: Geraniums are widely used in pots, hanging baskets, or as bedding plants due to their attractive foliage and flowers.
- Craft Projects: Dried Geranium flowers can be used in potpourri or incorporated into handmade paper, adding fragrance and texture.
- Companion Planting: Geraniums are often planted in vegetable gardens to help repel pests from crops like tomatoes and peppers.
- Ice Cubes: Petals from edible Geraniums can be frozen in ice cubes to add a decorative touch and slight flavoring to drinks.
- Culinary Decoration: Flowers from edible Geraniums can be used as a decorative, edible garnish on salads and desserts.
- Geranium Oil: While not a common home use, Geranium oil can be distilled from the plant and used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
- Education and Science: Geraniums are sometimes used in classrooms and labs to study plant biology and genetics due to their ease of cultivation and quick growth.
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: Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, are often associated with the soothing comfort of home as they're commonly used in domestic gardens and on balconies.
- Health and Healing: Historically, geraniums were planted around homes to keep evil spirits away, symbolizing protection and the promotion of good health.
- Friendship: The bright and friendly blooms of geraniums can signify close human bonds and are sometimes shared between friends as a symbol of positive relations.
- Sturdiness: Geraniums are known for their hardy nature and can represent the strength and resilience in overcoming life's challenges.
WaterGeraniums like the Pelargonium 'Galilee' should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this may mean watering every 7 to 10 days, depending on the climate and indoor conditions, but it is crucial not to follow a strict schedule and instead check the soil moisture regularly. When watering, use enough water to soak the soil completely until it runs out of the bottom of the pot, typically using about one to two gallons for a medium-sized pot over a month, adjusting for plant size and environmental factors.
LightGeraniums such as the Pelargonium 'Galilee' thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a window that receives plenty of light, but where the rays of the sun never directly touch the foliage, is ideal. East or west-facing windows are often good locations, but in regions with very strong sunlight, a sheer curtain can help diffuse the direct sun.
TemperatureGeraniums, like the Pelargonium 'Galilee', prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as they are not frost-tolerant. To thrive, keep them in a location where the temperature is consistent and avoid placing them near drafts or vents which can cause sudden temperature changes.
PruningPruning the Pelargonium 'Galilee' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Remove dead flowers and yellowing leaves as needed to maintain plant health and appearance. Prune heavily in early spring to promote new growth by cutting back leggy stems by one-third to one-half, typically once a year before the onset of the strong growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Geranium, which is the most common name for Pelargonium 'Galilee', is well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts potting soil to one part perlite or sand facilitates good drainage.
RepottingGeraniums should be repotted annually in fresh soil to prevent compaction and replenish nutrients. Larger pots may extend the repotting interval.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate low indoor humidity conditions without issue.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Geraniums in bright, indirect light indoors for best growth.
Outdoor
Grow Geraniums in full sun to part shade outdoors for optimal blooms.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Pelargonium 'Galilee' is Galilee geranium. The life cycle begins with the germination of seeds, preferably sown in early spring, in a warm and moist environment. After germination, the seedlings grow and develop true leaves, at which point they can be transplanted. Vegetative growth continues with the formation of a bushy structure, and the plant begins to produce its distinctive flowers during the warmer months. Galilee geraniums continue to grow and can be encouraged to bush out with regular pruning. They may either be treated as annuals or, in milder climates, can survive as perennials, going dormant in the winter and resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Pelargonium 'Galilee', commonly known as Geranium, is through stem cuttings. This is typically done in late summer to early fall. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering shoot is selected, and a portion of the stem around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots usually form within a few weeks, after which the new Geranium plants can be transplanted into individual pots or outdoor garden beds.
