Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter' (Z/c)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter', commonly known as a type of Geranium, is a striking plant known for its lush and vibrant floral display. The leaves of this cultivar are typically green, often rounded with a soft, velvety texture, and can have unique zonal patterns or markings that add an ornamental value aside from the flowers. The blossoms are particularly showy, with an array of petals that can come in shades of pink, red, purple, or white. These flowers are commonly arranged in clusters, also known as umbels, that rise above the foliage on slender stalks, creating a canopy of color that can be very appealing to the eye. The bloom structure of the Geranium 'Mrs Quilter' features individual flowers that are made up of two upper petals which may be slightly larger than the three lower ones, a characteristic that is often seen in many Geraniums. The petals might exhibit streaks or a gradation of color, leading to a pleasing aesthetic, with vibrant colors that make this plant highly decorative. Although size is not the focus, the overall look of Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter' suggests a compact and bushy appearance that makes it suitable for container gardening, as well as for planting in the ground in suitable climates. The vibrant display of Geranium 'Mrs Quilter' is complemented by its extended blooming period, which allows the plant to produce flowers for most of the growing season, adding long-lasting beauty to gardens and living spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Zonal Geranium, Fisher Geranium, Garden Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter'
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, which include the Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingesting large quantities of the plant material may cause minor irritations or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms could include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact with the skin might also cause dermatitis in allergy-prone individuals.
To pets
Geraniums can be toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If ingested, the plant can cause vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In cats, geraniums may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. While the toxicity is typically mild to moderate, pet owners should prevent their pets from consuming any part of the plant and seek veterinary assistance if ingestion occurs.
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: Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter', commonly known as geranium, adds a splash of color to gardens and homes with its vibrant and colorful flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Geraniums are a popular choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners because they require minimal care and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
- Long Blooming Season: With proper care, geraniums can bloom from spring until fall, providing a long-lasting display of flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the geranium can attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden, helping to pollinate other plants.
- Versatile Planting Options: Geraniums are suitable for planting in garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, and window boxes, offering versatile landscaping options.
- Drought Tolerance: Geraniums are somewhat drought-tolerant once established, making them suitable for areas with water restrictions or those who prefer low-water gardening.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellant: The leaves of geraniums can be rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes and other insects due to their strong scent.
- Stress Relief: The essential oil of geraniums is used in aromatherapy for its potential to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and tension.
- Flavoring Agent: Geranium leaves are sometimes used to flavor jellies, teas, and desserts with a subtle rose-like essence.
- Natural Dye: The petals of geraniums can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or crafting projects.
- Plant Companion: Geraniums can be planted in gardens to deter pests from other plants, making them an excellent companion plant.
- Decoration: Geraniums are often used in basket arrangements and window boxes for their aesthetic appeal and vibrant blooms.
- Fragrance Production: Geranium oil is a component of many perfumes due to its rich and enduring scent.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of geranium petals can be used as a decorative and aromatic garnish in salads and plates.
- Creative Crafting: Pressed or dried geranium flowers can be incorporated into handmade paper, bookmarks, or potpourri mixtures.
- Ritual Use: In some cultures, geraniums are used in ceremonial bouquets or offerings for their symbolic meanings, such as friendship or good health.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, can be used in Feng Shui to bring positive energy, often associated with happiness and good health. As a flowering plant, it adds color and life to a space, which can enhance the chi. Place geraniums in the wealth area of your home or in the living room for social gatherings to boost good vibes and prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort and Healing: As a member of the geranium family, the 'Mrs Quilter' variety often represents comfort and the provision of healing energy, due to the geranium's long history of use in folk medicine and its pleasant, soothing fragrance.
- Friendship: Geranium plants are sometimes associated with friendship, symbolizing wishes for positive encounters and the joys of being surrounded by loved ones.
- Unexpected Meeting: Some cultures consider geraniums to symbolize an unexpected meeting. 'Mrs Quilter', with its distinctive appearance, could embody the pleasant surprise of an unforeseen encounter.
- Happiness and Positive Energy: The bright and vibrant flowers of the 'Mrs Quilter' geranium are often seen as a beacon of happiness and positive energy, embodying the plant's ability to brighten someone's day.
WaterGeraniums, like the Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter', prefer to be watered deeply but allowed to dry out between waterings. It's typically best to water these plants once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the climate and the time of the year, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water each time for a large plant. During the summer months, they may require more frequent watering, especially if they are in containers that dry out quickly. In contrast, during the cooler months, you may need to reduce the frequency. Always check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water again.
LightThe Geranium 'Mrs Quilter' thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily is ideal, but it should be shielded during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch. East-facing or west-facing windowsills are great locations for potted geraniums indoors, while outdoors they should be placed in a bright area with some dappled afternoon shade.
TemperatureGeraniums flourish in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, which is their ideal growing range. They can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 30°F but should be protected from frost. Likewise, it's advisable to avoid exposing them to temperatures above 85°F for prolonged periods. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants will help maintain the appropriate temperature.
PruningPruning Geraniums like 'Mrs Quilter' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. In late winter or early spring, perform a more thorough pruning by cutting the plants back by about one-third to one-half to keep them compact. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves at any time to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Mrs Quilter' prefers a soil mix that is well-draining and fertile, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A good mixture could be one part peat moss, one part compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingGeranium 'Mrs Quilter' should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Spring is the ideal time for repotting, allowing the plant to acclimate throughout the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Mrs Quilter' is adaptable to most indoor humidity levels but prefers a moderate environment. Aim for humidity levels around 40-60% for optimal growth, avoiding overly dry or excessively moist air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Geranium 'Mrs Quilter' in bright, indirect light, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Ensure plenty of sunlight, protect from harsh weather, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Mrs Quilter' (Z/c), commonly known as Zonal Geranium, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in moist, well-draining soil and in warm conditions. The seedling will emerge and develop true leaves, a process which can be hastened in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage where it grows stems, leaves, and establishes a root system. The geranium will then enter the flowering stage, producing vibrant blooms that can be red, pink, purple, or white, depending on the cultivar. After pollination, if it occurs, the flowers will give way to fruit containing seeds, which marks the plant's reproductive stage and can lead to the spread of new plants if the seeds find suitable growing conditions. Lastly, the zonal geranium may enter a period of dormancy in colder months if grown in temperate regions, but in warmer climates, it may remain evergreen and continue growing year-round.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Pelargonium 'Mrs Quilter', commonly known as the geranium, is most popularly propagated through stem cuttings. This method involves selecting a healthy, non-flowering shoot about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut just below a leaf node using a sharp, sterilized blade. Remove the lower leaves to leave a clean length of stem that can be inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. The top remaining leaves should be left intact to allow photosynthesis. The cutting should then be placed in a warm, bright place out of direct sunlight until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks. To maintain humidity and encourage rooting, a plastic bag can be placed lightly over the cutting, removing it occasionally to let fresh air in and prevent mold growth.
