Geranium Pelargonium 'La France' (I/d)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'La France' is a type of geranium known for its striking appearance. The plant typically features lush, green foliage that creates a dense backdrop for the flowers. Its leaves are often rounded with slightly scalloped edges, sometimes showing darker zonal markings that add to the visual interest of the plant. The geranium's flowers are the true highlight, typically showcased in clusters above the foliage. These blooms can present a range of colors, but they frequently exhibit shades ranging from soft pinks to vibrant reds. Each flower consists of five petals, with the upper petals sometimes displaying contrasting markings or streaks that draw the eye. In terms of overall form, geraniums like 'La France' have a bushy, rounded shape that allows for a full display of both leaves and blooms. The plant often gives off a pleasant fragrance, both from the leaves and the flowers, adding to its sensory appeal. This geranium is valued not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its resilience and its ability to be cultivated in various settings, including containers and garden beds, where it adds a burst of color and texture to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Zonal Geranium, Common Geranium, Garden Geranium, French Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'La France'
ToxicityTo humans
The Pelargonium 'La France', commonly known as a type of geranium, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingestion of parts of this plant typically does not cause serious harm, although consuming it is not recommended. If parts of the plant are ingested in large quantities, it might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, due to the presence of essential oils and other compounds. It is always advised to keep plants out of reach of small children to prevent accidental ingestion.
To pets
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'La France', are known to be toxic to animals such as dogs and cats. Ingesting parts of the plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In pets, the toxic principle is thought to be geraniol and linalool found in the essential oils of the plant. If a pet consumes a part of this geranium, it is recommended to contact a vet immediately to prevent further complications or to administer treatment if needed.
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- Aesthetic Appeal: 'La France' pelargonium, commonly known as Geranium, adds vibrant colors and decorative foliage to gardens and homes.
- Easy Maintenance: Geraniums are known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive.
- Drought Tolerance: They can survive periods of low water availability, making them suitable for diverse climates and busy owners.
- Pest Resistance: Geraniums are naturally resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Versatility: They can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or beds, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Continuous Blooming: Geraniums can produce flowers continuously throughout the growing season with proper care.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollinating other plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargonium 'La France' can be used in the creation of potpourri due to its fragrant leaves and flowers, providing a long-lasting aroma when dried and mixed with other botanical elements.
- The plant's essential oil is often used in aromatherapy and as a fragrance in candles, imparting a soothing and uplifting scent to the environment.
- The leaves can be infused in oil or vinegar to impart a subtle flavor, suitable for use in culinary preparations such as salad dressings and marinades.
- Pelargonium 'La France's vibrant flowers can be used to make a natural dye for fabric, offering shades of pink and purple depending on the mordant used.
- The leaves are sometimes used in small quantities to flavor desserts, such as jellies and sorbets, providing a unique, citrus-like taste.
- As an insect repellent, the fragrance of Pelargonium 'La France' can deter pests naturally when planted in outdoor living areas or when the leaves are rubbed on the skin.
- It can be used in decorative wreaths and floral arrangements due to its attractive foliage and flowers, which hold up well when cut.
- The dried flowers can be used in crafts, such as making bookmarks or pressed flower art, for their beauty and longevity.
- Used as a companion plant, Pelargonium 'La France' can help protect vegetable gardens by repelling certain pests due to its strong scent.
- When used in educational settings like botany studies, the plant serves as an example of hybridization and propagation techniques in gardening and horticulture classes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Restoration and revival: The Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, often symbolizes the concept of regeneration and new life because of its ability to recover and bloom again after cutting back or going dormant.
- Comfort: Geraniums provide a sense of solace and comfort, making them a popular choice for bringing warmth to home environments or offering as a gesture of support during difficult times.
- Friendship: The gift of a geranium plant can be a symbol of deep friendship and the mutual understanding between two people, reflecting the long-lasting nature of the plant.
- Health and healing: Geraniums are also associated with healing properties, both in traditional herbal uses and in a symbolic sense, representing well-being and a healthy lifestyle.
- Protection: Some cultures believe that geraniums have protective qualities, thus they are commonly planted near homes or given as gifts to wish someone protection and safety.
WaterGeraniums, which is the common name for Pelargonium 'La France', should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Typically, watering once every 7 to 10 days is sufficient, but this can vary depending on climate conditions and the size of the plant. When watering, apply water directly to the soil rather than overhead to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. For an average-sized plant, use approximately 16 onzes of water each time you water, adjusting as needed for the plant's size and environmental conditions.
LightGeraniums thrive in bright, indirect sunlight so a spot where they can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day is ideal. Avoid placing them in areas with harsh, direct afternoon sun which can scorch their leaves. An east or west-facing window or a sun-dappled spot outdoors is perfect to provide the right amount of light.
TemperatureGeraniums prefer temperate conditions and do well in a temperature range of 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods but frost can be damaging. To promote flowering and healthy growth, aim to keep your geraniums within this ideal temperature range.
PruningPrune geraniums to encourage bushier growth and to remove dead or yellowed leaves and spent blooms. This should be done regularly throughout the growing season. The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back up to one-third of the plant to shape it and promote new, healthy growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilScented geraniums like Pelargonium 'La France' thrive best in a well-draining soil mix consisting of peat moss, perlite, and compost with a pH around 6.0 to 6.5.
RepottingScented geraniums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingScented geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels, but they are quite adaptable and can tolerate indoor humidity conditions well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, water when dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleGeranium 'La France' begins its life cycle when a seed is sown in moist, well-draining soil and germinates, typically in the warmth of spring or summer. From the germinated seed, a seedling emerges and grows, developing a root system and foliage with its characteristic lobed leaves and a sturdy stem. As the geranium matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it focuses on leafy growth and building a strong framework for future flowering. Upon reaching maturity and with adequate light, water, and nutrients, Geranium 'La France' enters the flowering stage, producing clusters of showy flowers that can range in color depending on the cultivar. After pollination, these flowers may produce seeds, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to self-sow if environmental conditions permit. The plant may enter a period of dormancy during colder months, reducing growth until favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagating Pelargonium 'La France', also known as scented geranium, is through stem cuttings. To propagate, choose a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long. Cut the stem just below a leaf node, and remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, stick the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Ensure the container provides adequate drainage. Water the cutting lightly and place it in a location with indirect sunlight. The cutting should root within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
