Scented Geranium Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas' (Sc)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', more commonly known as a type of geranium, is a striking plant noted for its distinctive foliage and blossoms. The leaves are typically rounded with a soft, velvety texture and may exhibit a zonal pattern, which means they often have a circular mark of a different color in the center. These patterns can add an ornamental value to the greenery itself. The edges of the leaves can be somewhat scalloped or lobed, adding to their ornamental appeal. The flowers of the 'Grace Thomas' geranium are particularly eye-catching, often arranged in clusters or umbels above the foliage on sturdy stems. They can come in a variety of colors, ranging from pale pinks to deep reds, or sometimes vibrant oranges and purples, depending on the specific cultivation. These blooms have five petals that are typically rounded, with some varieties showing distinct veining or streaks of contrasting hues for a dramatic effect. Moreover, the flowers have a tendency to be quite showy, making them popular for garden displays, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration. The overall impression of the 'Grace Thomas' geranium is one of lushness and vibrant color, with a lush foliage base that sets off the jewel-like tones of the blooms. Its aesthetic makes it ideal for adding a pop of color to ornamental gardens or for brightening up indoor spaces when kept in suitable conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
No common names available.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas'.
ToxicityTo humans
Members of the geranium family, which includes the pelargonium commonly referred to as geraniums, are generally not considered toxic to humans. While they are not edible and should not be consumed, accidental ingestion typically does not lead to severe poisoning. However, sensitive individuals may experience mild symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if they ingest parts of the plant.
To pets
Geraniums including 'Grace Thomas' have been reported to cause mild to moderate toxicity in pets such as dogs and cats. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. The essential oils and other compounds within the plant are known to be the causative agents. It is advisable to keep these plants out of reach of pets to prevent ingestion and the potential toxic effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest with its vibrant flowers and decorative foliage.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it's relatively drought-resistant, requiring less watering compared to other plants.
- Long Blooming: Often has a lengthy flowering period which can extend from spring to fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers can attract bees and butterflies, beneficial for garden pollination.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for use in borders, pots, and as a bedding plant, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Fragrant Leaves: The leaves of some varieties are scented and can add a pleasant aroma to the garden or home when brushed against or crushed.
- Low Pest Issues: Generally not prone to serious pest problems, contributing to easier plant care and maintenance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Potpourri: Geranium leaves, including those of Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', can be dried and added to potpourri mixes for a pleasant fragrance.
- Natural dye: The petals of geraniums can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, giving them a subtle coloration.
- Artistic inspiration: The vibrant colors and patterns of geranium flowers, like those of Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', can provide inspiration for artists in their paintings or textile designs.
- Culinary decoration: Edible varieties of geranium can be used to adorn cakes and pastries, offering an attractive and sometimes flavorful garnish.
- Fragrance sachets: Dried geranium leaves can be made into small sachets that can freshen up closets and drawers with their scent.
- Companion planting: Geraniums can be used in companion planting to help deter certain pests from other plants in the garden.
- Educational tool: Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas' can be used in botany classes for educational purposes, such as studying flower anatomy or plant propagation.
- Insect repellent: Some people use geranium leaves to rub on their skin as a natural insect repellent, although effectiveness can vary.
- Photography subject: With their appealing flowers, geraniums are often used as subjects in photography, capturing the intricacy of their bloom.
- Crafts: Dried geranium flowers can be incorporated into homemade crafts like bookmarks, greeting cards, or pressed flower art.
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 soft, round leaves and delicate appearance of the Pelargonium (often referred to as geranium) may represent comfort and a sense of nurturing.
- Friendship: Geraniums are popular plants for gifting amongst friends, symbolizing deep friendship and positive social interaction.
- Good Health: Traditionally, geraniums have been associated with promoting good health and recovery, as some believe in its healing properties.
- Happiness: The bright and vibrant flowers of the geranium can signify happiness and a positive outlook on life.
- Harmony: The balanced and symmetrical growth of geraniums is often linked to harmony and stability in one's home and life.
WaterGeraniums, like Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again, which typically means watering these plants once every 7 to 10 days. When you do water, ensure you provide enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes—about one to two gallons per plant, depending on the size of the plant and pot. In the summer months or hot weather, you'll need to water more often, while in winter, it is important to reduce watering.
LightGeraniums need bright, indirect light and should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Direct morning light is good, but they should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, so a spot that has some shade in the hottest part of the day is ideal. East or west-facing windows inside the home or a place that is shielded from the direct midday sun outdoors are good locations.
TemperatureGeraniums thrive in moderate temperatures and should be kept in an environment where the temperature is consistently between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, dropping to 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can survive in temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit but do best in their optimal range. Keeping them out of drafts and away from heating and cooling vents will help maintain the desired temperature range.
PruningPrune geraniums to encourage bushier growth, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and spent blooms to promote new growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Aim to prune back up to one-third of the plant to shape it and remove any leggy stems. Regular deadheading of spent flowers throughout the growing season will also keep the plant looking tidy and may encourage more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Scented Geraniums, including Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas,' is a well-draining potting mix composed of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with organic material to ensure good aeration and drainage.
RepottingScented Geraniums like Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas' should generally be repotted every 1-2 years, or when the plant outgrows its current pot. It is best to repot in spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingScented Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to lower humidity conditions commonly found in home environments. The ideal humidity range is between 40% to 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation for indoor Scented Geraniums.
Outdoor
Scented Geraniums thrive in sunny spots with some afternoon shade.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', commonly known as a type of Scented Geranium, begins with seed germination, triggered by warmth and moisture which usually occurs in early spring. The seedlings then develop into juvenile plants, growing leaves and stems characteristic of the species. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage where it continues to grow and produce more foliage. Upon reaching maturity, the geranium starts the reproductive phase, developing flower buds that bloom into the distinctive flowers of the species, typically in late spring to summer. After pollination, possibly by insects or wind, the plant produces seeds which, when mature, are dispersed to start the cycle anew. Eventually, as temperatures drop in autumn or after several years, the geranium may enter a period of dormancy or decline, particularly in colder climates, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
For Pelargonium 'Grace Thomas', commonly known as scented geranium, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This should ideally be done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy stem that is about 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 cm) long and cut just below a leaf node using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. The pot should then be placed in a warm location with indirect light, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, at which point the new scented geranium can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
