Geranium Pelargonium 'Georgina Blythe' (R)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Georgina Blythe' is a captivating garden plant that is celebrated for its ornamental foliage and attractive flowers. The plant features a dense cluster of leaves that are rich green in color, with each leaf exhibiting a rounded shape with slightly scalloped or lobed edges, giving them a soft and inviting texture. The flowers are the stars of the show, typically displayed in an eye-catching array of colors which may include shades of vibrant pink, purple, or white, depending on the variety. These blossoms are formed in rounded clusters atop elongated stems which stand out above the foliage, creating a contrast that is both striking and graceful. Flower petals have a unique arrangement with upper petals differing slightly in size or marking compared to the lower ones, often marked with darker veins or a different tone at the base, adding depth and intricacy to the overall floral display. The flowers exude a subtle yet delightful fragrance that enhances the sensory appeal of the plant, enticing both gardeners and pollinators alike. Moreover, the stems of this Pelargonium are thick and succulent, indicating a sturdy structure that supports the lush foliage and floral bouquets. With an overall lush and robust appearance, 'Georgina Blythe' is a charming addition to any garden, offering a continual display of colorful blooms over the growing season. Its presence adds a touch of classic elegance to container gardens, window boxes, or beds and borders within a landscaped setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Georgina Blythe Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Georgina Blythe' (R).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as geranium is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, all parts of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In some cases, contact with the skin might cause dermatitis or irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. It is important to keep plants out of reach of small children who might accidentally ingest plant material.
To pets
Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, particularly to dogs and cats. If any part of the geranium is ingested by pets, it can lead to symptoms of poisoning. These symptoms may include vomiting, depression, anorexia, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more significant health issues, though this is rare. Pet owners should keep geraniums out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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- Easy to care for: Pelargonium 'Georgina Blythe' is a low-maintenance plant, suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought resistant: This variety can tolerate periods of dryness, making it ideal for areas with water restrictions.
- Long blooming season: It provides colorful flowers for an extended period, often from spring until frost.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage, the plant adds beauty to gardens, patios, and balconies.
- Attracts pollinators: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the blossoms, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatile planting options: It can be planted in the ground, in containers, or hanging baskets, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Pest resistance: This cultivar is resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Potpourri Ingredient: Dried leaves and flowers of the geranium can be added to potpourri mixes for a pleasant fragrance.
- Floral Arrangements: Geranium flowers can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements for their color and form.
- Insect Repellant Sachets: Dried geranium leaves can be placed in small sachets to naturally repel moths and other insects in closets and drawers.
- Book-pressing: The blossoms of geraniums can be used in book-pressing to create delicate and ornamental decorations for handmade cards or bookmarks.
- Scented Candles: Geranium petals can be used to decorate or infuse fragrance into homemade candles.
- Culinary Uses: Certain types of geranium leaves are edible and can be used to flavor desserts, jellies, and teas, although caution is advised to ensure the variety is non-toxic.
- Homemade Soaps: The essential oil or petals of geraniums can be incorporated into homemade soaps for their scent and skin benefits.
- Dye Plant: Geranium flowers can sometimes be used to produce natural dyes for coloring fabric or paper.
- Natural Fabric Freshener: Dried geranium leaves can be tucked into drawers or laid with linens to impart a mild fragrance.
- Garden Companions: Geraniums can be planted alongside a variety of other plants as ornamental companions in garden beds and borders.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGeraniums are associated with good health, positive energy, and friendship in Feng Shui. They can be placed in areas of the home where you want to promote healing and encourage social interactions, such as the living room or near the front entrance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityGeraniums are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort: Pelargoniums, also known as geraniums, often symbolize comfort due to their soothing fragrances and presence in home gardens, suggesting a sense of domestic tranquility.
- Friendship: Geraniums can represent positive relationships and connections, signifying friendship and the bonds between people.
- Health: With their medicinal properties, geraniums have been associated with health and healing, reflecting the plant's use in traditional remedies.
- Good Luck: In some cultures, geraniums are thought to bring good fortune to those who grow them, owing to their hardy nature and vibrant flowers.
WaterGeraniums should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, watering once a week with about 8-16 ounces of water per plant is sufficient. However, during hot, dry periods, they may require more frequent watering, such as twice per week. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. In winter, reduce watering to every two weeks or less, depending on indoor conditions.
LightGeraniums prefer bright, indirect sunlight and can thrive in a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. An east- or west-facing window is ideal for indoor plants, providing enough light without the harsh midday sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause leggy growth.
TemperatureGeraniums grow best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, but can tolerate a range from 55°F to 80°F. They should be protected from frost, which can damage or kill the plant. Ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights, avoiding temperatures below 30°F and above 85°F for extended periods of time.
PruningPrune geraniums to encourage bushier growth, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and promote more blooms. Pinch or cut back the stems by about one-third in spring and periodically throughout the summer. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to promote continuous flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeraniums prefer a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and compost. The ideal soil pH for geraniums, including 'Georgina Blythe', is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeraniums like 'Georgina Blythe' should be repotted once every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and promote healthy growth. It's best to repot in spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums prefer moderate humidity levels and do well in typical household conditions; they are quite tolerant and do not require high humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place geranium in a bright spot; avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny area, shelter from strong winds, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the plant, commonly known as a species of Geranium, begins with the germination of seeds in moist soil conditions and adequate warmth. Once germinated, seedlings emerge, developing their first true leaves and establishing a small root system. As the plant matures, it experiences a vegetative growth stage, where leaves and stems proliferate, and it develops a robust root system. The geranium then enters the flowering stage, during which it produces vibrant blooms that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, initiating the potential for a new generation of plants. The plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, to survive unfavorable conditions until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Pelargonium 'Georgina Blythe', commonly known as a type of geranium, is typically propagated by stem cuttings. This popular method involves taking a healthy, 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 centimeters) cutting from a mature plant during the active growing season, which is usually spring or early summer. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright place out of direct sunlight. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to encourage root growth. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to normal growing conditions and eventually transplanted to a permanent location.
