Geranium Pelargonium 'Kimono' (R)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Kimono', often referred to as a type of geranium, is a delightfully decorative plant known for its showy and vibrant blossoms. The flowers of this plant exhibit a range of colors, typically presenting bright and striking pink petals that may be marked with deeper purple or magenta veining, giving a distinctive and patterned appearance that can be reminiscent of the decorative Japanese garment, the Kimono. The petals are rounded, often with slight ruffling at the edges, and they are clustered together in an umbrella-like formation known as an inflorescence. The foliage of Pelargonium 'Kimono' is equally attractive, with leaves that are generally green and bear a unique zonal pattern that can be darker in color. The leaves are usually heart-shaped or rounded with a slight lobing at the margins, providing a lush backdrop to the colorful floral display. The texture of the leaves might be semi-succulent and somewhat fleshy, contributing to the plant's robust feel. This variety of geranium is often admired for its compact and bushy growth habit, making it highly suitable for container gardening, hanging baskets, and as an ornamental feature in flower beds and borders. It tends to have a well-branched structure that supports the abundant blooming characteristic of the plant, ensuring a long-lasting and striking visual impact throughout its blooming season. Overall, Pelargonium 'Kimono' is celebrated for its ornamental beauty, with a harmonious combination of eye-catching flowers and ornate foliage.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Geranium, Kimono Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Kimono'
ToxicityTo humans
Generally, geraniums (the most common name for plants in the Pelargonium genus) are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, they can potentially cause minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Skin contact with the sap may sometimes result in irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Geraniums can be toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If ingested, they may cause vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Cats may also experience excessive salivation, anorexia, lethargy, and diarrhea. It is important to keep geraniums out of reach of pets to prevent any potential poisoning.
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
Varies
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Adds a splash of color and aesthetic appeal to gardens, patios, or balconies with its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Able to withstand periods of low water availability, which is beneficial for water conservation efforts.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers prolonged flowering seasons, often from spring to fall, ensuring consistent garden interest.
- Pest Resistance: Naturally resistant to certain pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a variety of soil types and climate conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of environments.
- Versatility: Can be planted in beds, containers, hanging baskets, or used as edging plants, offering flexible design options.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargonium 'Kimono', commonly known as geranium, can be used in homemade potpourris due to its scented leaves, adding a pleasant aroma to your homemade mix.
- The leaves of the geranium can also be infused into oils for use in aromatherapy, providing a relaxing and calming scent.
- Geranium flowers may be candied or frozen in ice cubes to create decorative and edible elements for culinary presentations.
- Pressed geranium flowers can be used in crafting, such as in the creation of bookmarks, greeting cards, or in scrapbooking for their beauty and color.
- The essential oil from geranium can be added to homemade soaps or lotions for fragrance and as a natural preservative.
- Geranium leaves can be placed among clothes or linens to impart a fresh, floral fragrance, acting as a natural deodorizer and insect repellent.
- The robust color and shape of geranium flowers make them suitable for temporary natural dye in various art projects.
- Geraniums can be used as companion plants in the vegetable garden to help repel pests from crops due to their strong scent.
- The plants can be grown in containers with other flowers to create visually stimulating arrangements in patio and urban gardening.
- Geranium leaves can be used to line serving trays or plates when presenting food, adding an ornamental and aromatic touch to the dining experience.
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 and Nostalgia: As a type of geranium, the Pelargonium 'Kimono' is often associated with feelings of comfort and nostalgia, conjuring up memories of grandmothers' gardens and summer days.
- Friendship: Geraniums symbolize close bonds and positive relationships, making them a popular gift to express kinship and companionship.
- Good Health: The plant is sometimes considered a symbol of good health, owing to its use in traditional remedies and its presence in home gardens where it is valued for its pleasant scent and believed health benefits.
- Happiness and Positive Energy: With its bright colors and hardy nature, geraniums such as Pelargonium 'Kimono' are thought to represent happiness and bring positive energy into a space.
WaterThe Kimono Geranium should be watered deeply once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. During hot or windy weather, the plant may need to be watered more frequently. Provide about one to two gallons of water for outdoor plants, or adjust the amount to ensure the soil becomes moist but not waterlogged for potted plants. Cut back on watering during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
LightThe Kimono Geranium thrives in a location with bright, indirect light and can also tolerate direct sunlight for part of the day. The ideal spot would be where the plant receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. Placing it in a south or west-facing window indoors or a slightly shaded spot outdoors would ensure adequate light for healthy growth.
TemperatureKimono Geraniums perform best in temperatures between 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a maximum tolerance of 80 degrees and a minimum of just above freezing. They should be protected from frost and not be subjected to temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights, mimicking their native subtropical environment.
PruningPrune your Kimono Geranium to encourage bushy growth, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and promote more vigorous flowering. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove up to one-third of the plant, cutting just above a leaf node. Regular deadheading of spent blooms throughout the growing season can also encourage additional flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Kimono' prefers a well-draining, fertile potting mix with equal parts peat, perlite, and compost. Optimal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeraniums like 'Kimono' should be repotted every one to two years or when they become root-bound to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Kimono' thrives in average room humidity levels around 40-60%, avoiding excessively humid conditions to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Kimono' Geranium in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Grow 'Kimono' Geranium in partial shade to full sun outside.
Hardiness zone
9-12 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Kimono', also known as Kimono Geranium, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination, develops into a seedling with characteristic lobed leaves and a sturdy stem. As it enters the vegetative stage, it produces more foliage and grows larger, forming a bushy habit. This period of growth is followed by the flowering stage, where the plant displays vibrant blooms, often in shades of pink, red, or white. After pollination, if it occurs, the flowers will produce seeds which can be dispersed to give rise to new plants. As an evergreen perennial, the Kimono Geranium can continue this cycle for several years, although in colder climates it may be grown as an annual and replanted each year. Environmental factors and care practices significantly affect the longevity and health of the plant throughout its life stages.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Pelargonium 'Kimono', commonly referred to as Geranium 'Kimono', is often propagated via stem cuttings. To propagate Geranium 'Kimono' through stem cuttings, one should ideally take cuttings in late summer to early fall. A healthy, non-flowering stem around 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) long should be cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting should be planted in well-draining soil, and the pot should be kept in a warm, well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight, to avoid drying out. It generally takes a few weeks for the cutting to root, after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden depending on the climate. Regular watering should be carried out, making sure not to overwater and cause the cutting to rot.
