Zonal Geranium Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' (Dw/st)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' is a decorative plant with distinct and attractive features. It is characterized by its lush, dense foliage which is typically bright green, with leaves that have a soft, velvety texture and a rounded shape with slightly scalloped edges. The leaves may carry a hint of a zonal pattern which translates as darker green circular bands or zones on the leaf surface. Blooms are a standout feature on this variety, with flowers assembled in tight clusters atop sturdy stems. The flowers themselves are noted for their rich, velvety color, often a deep red or burgundy shade, and they boast a classic geranium shape—rounded petals with slight overlaps, forming a cup or umbrella-like silhouette. Inside the petals, there are often patterns or marks, which can include darker streaks or spots that draw the eye to the center of the flower where the reproductive parts are found. These blossoms can appear profusely under ideal conditions and are known for their long-lasting nature on the plant. It’s the striking combination of vivid floral displays and robust, attractive foliage that makes the Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' a well-loved choice for plant enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Grandad Mac Pelargonium, Dwarf/Stellar Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac'
ToxicityTo humans
The Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, typically is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, it can cause minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In general, the consequences of ingesting parts of the Pelargonium plant are not severe, but care should still be taken to prevent ingestion, especially in children and vulnerable individuals. If symptoms do arise or if there is a known allergy to the plant, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
Geraniums can be toxic to pets if ingested. The symptoms of poisoning in pets, particularly in cats and dogs, may include vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Ingesting any part of the plant might lead to gastrointestinal upset or other symptoms. If you suspect your pet has ingested geranium, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly.
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
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' adds vibrant color and texture to gardens and homes with its attractive foliage and flowers.
- Easy to grow: This plant is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance, which makes it ideal for novice gardeners.
- Drought tolerance: It is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Pest resistance: Pelargoniums are generally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Long blooming season: It has a long flowering period that can provide color and interest in the garden for much of the year.
- Attracts beneficial insects: The flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Container gardening: Perfect for container gardening, allowing those with limited space to enjoy their beauty and charm.
- Versatility in landscaping: It can be used in various garden designs, including borders, beds, and as a specimen plant.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafts: The vibrant leaves and flowers of geraniums can be pressed and used to create beautiful crafts such as bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed art.
- Dyeing: Geranium petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yarns or paper, producing unique and soft color shades.
- Insect Deterrent: While it is commonly known that geraniums can repel mosquitoes, they can also deter other pests if planted near vegetable gardens or interspersed among other plants.
- Perfumery: The scented variety of geraniums can be used in the homemade formulation of perfumes and scented oils.
- Floor Wash: Geranium leaves can be infused into water to create a fragrant floor wash that leaves a pleasant scent and cleanses the space energetically.
- Companion Planting: Geraniums are excellent companion plants and can benefit nearby plants by enhancing their growth and deterring pests.
- Cooking: Some edible varieties of geraniums can be used to flavor desserts, jellies, and teas with their distinctive taste and aroma.
- Flower Arrangements: Fresh or dried geranium flowers can add color and texture to flower arrangements and posies.
- Essential Oils: Geranium plant leaves can be processed to extract essential oil that is used in aromatherapy for stress relief and relaxation.
- Pet Bedding: Dried and crushed geranium leaves can sometimes be used to line pet beds due to their pleasant scent and potential pest-repelling properties.
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: Often found in domestic settings, geraniums are associated with a sense of comfort and familiarity.
- Friendship: Geraniums can symbolize close relationships and the positive bond between friends, possibly due to their inviting appearance.
- Health: Their presence in home gardens has also led them to symbolize good health and the wish for recovery.
- Good Luck: In some cultures, having geraniums is believed to bring good fortune and ward off negative energies.
WaterGeraniums, like Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', prefer their soil to be kept evenly moist but not soggy. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically amounts to once every week, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water geraniums more frequently. When watering, use room temperature water and apply it directly to the soil to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. An average-sized geranium in a 10-inch pot will generally require about 16 ounces of water every time you water it, but always adjust the amount depending on the plant's current conditions and the weather.
LightGeraniums, including Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A location near a south-facing window with some light shade or a light curtain is usually ideal. Avoid placing your geraniums in full direct sun, particularly during the hot summer months, as this can scorch their leaves.
TemperatureGeraniums, like Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', prefer to be grown in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime and no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can survive brief periods of temperatures a few degrees outside this range, but prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold can be detrimental to the plant.
PruningGeraniums including Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', require pruning to promote bushy growth and prevent legginess. Prune back overgrown stems and remove dead or yellowing leaves regularly. The best time to do an extensive pruning is in early spring before new growth begins. Doing so can encourage a more compact shape and improve air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeraniums like Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' prefer a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingGeraniums, including Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', should be repotted every 1 to 2 years or when they become root-bound to maintain healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums such as Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac' are tolerant of average indoor humidity levels and do not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade; water when soil feels dry.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Grandad Mac', commonly known as a type of Geranium, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in early spring under warm conditions with well-drained soil. After germination, it proceeds to the seedling stage, developing its first true leaves. As the seedling matures into a vegetative state, the plant grows robustly, producing distinctive lobed leaves and branching stems. The next stage involves flowering, where the plant showcases numerous brightly colored flowers, usually from late spring throughout summer, depending on the climate. After pollination, typically aided by insects, the plant sets seeds within the elongated, beak-like fruit capsules. At the end of its annual growing season, the plant may die back, particularly in cooler climates, or it can be overwintered indoors, where it may enter a period of dormancy before the cycle restarts with the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Grandad Mac', commonly known as Geranium, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is either in late summer or early fall to allow for robust root growth before the onset of winter, or in spring as the plant begins active growth. To propagate through cuttings, a healthy stem about 3 to 4 inches long (7.5 to 10 centimeters) is selected. The bottom leaves of the cutting are removed, leaving only a couple of leaves at the top. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, though this is not strictly necessary. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the nodes where the lower leaves were removed are buried as this is where roots will emerge. The cutting should be kept in a warm location with bright, indirect light and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until the cutting has taken root, typically in a few weeks.
