Geranium Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal' (Z)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal' is a vibrant and showy plant, known for its stunning orange flowers. The blooms are brightly colored and have a slight ruffle to their petals, each flower cluster sitting atop sturdy stems, creating a lovely contrast against the green foliage. The leaves of this plant are equally attractive, with a slightly zonal pattern exhibiting darker green tones, sometimes with a hint of a darker pattern within them. The texture of the leaves is somewhat velvety, and they are shaped like rounded hearts with scalloped edges. The unique orange flowers tend to attract attention in any garden setting, and because of their brightness, they add a warm and inviting presence. The flowers are often used for their aesthetic appeal in various garden designs or as potted decorative plants on patios or indoor settings. Despite the limitations on discussing size, it's clear that the 'Orange Appeal' makes a statement with its vivid hues, drawing the eye to its cheerful display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Geranium, Scented Geranium, Orange Appeal Geranium, Orange Appeal Pelargonium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal'
ToxicityTo humans
The Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', commonly known as geranium, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of geranium plants might cause minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is typically the oil from the plant that can cause more severe reactions such as dermatitis if there is skin contact. As with any plant, it's prudent to keep it out of reach of small children who might ingest parts of it out of curiosity.
To pets
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', could be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, if ingested. The most common symptoms of geranium poisoning in pets include vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion could potentially lead to more severe reactions such as hypothermia or hyper salivation. It's important to ensure pets do not have access to these plants to prevent potential toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
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- Ornamental Value: Adds vivid color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Aromatic Foliage: Leaves emit a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it requires less water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Attracts Pollinators: Blooms can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.
- Easy to Grow: Generally low-maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of conditions.
- Long Blooming Season: Produces flowers for an extended period, often from spring to fall.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, allowing for versatility in placement.
- Deer Resistant: Its scent and taste tend to make it less appealing to deer.
- Variety of Uses: Can be used in garden beds, borders, and as a standalone specimen.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Used as a natural fabric dye, Pelargoniums can impart a range of colors onto natural fabrics when used in the dyeing process.
- Potpourri ingredient, the scented leaves of 'Orange Appeal' can be dried and added to potpourri mixes for a citrusy fragrance.
- Culinary uses in desserts, the petals of some Pelargonium species can be candied or used as a decorative and flavorful accent in pastries and cakes.
- Flavoring agent in beverages, the leaves and flowers can be infused into teas or cocktails for a unique flavor twist.
- Crafting botanical paper, the pressed flowers and leaves of Pelargoniums can be incorporated into handmade paper for an artistic effect.
- Garden visual appeal, with its bright orange flowers, it's often used in garden design for a pop of color.
- Horticultural therapy, the act of tending to Pelargonium plants can serve as a relaxing and therapeutic hobby for individuals.
- Companion planting, Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal' may be used in vegetable gardens to help repel certain pests with its strong citrus scent.
- Natural insect repellent, when crushed, the leaves can be rubbed onto the skin to repel mosquitoes in a pinch.
- Educational tool, these plants can be used in school projects to teach children about plant growth and care.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGeraniums, including the 'Orange Appeal' variety, can be used in Feng Shui to promote positive Chi energy due to their vibrant and uplifting colors. They are often recommended to be placed in areas where energy needs a boost, such as a living room or home office, to encourage good fortune, happiness, and to ward off negative energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityGeraniums are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vitality and Energy: The bright orange color of the Geranium 'Orange Appeal' is often associated with liveliness and vibrance, symbolizing an energetic presence in one’s life.
- Happiness and Positivity: Geraniums, particularly those with such cheerful hues, are thought to represent happiness and a positive outlook.
- Friendship: Gifting Geraniums may signify a close friendship or a wish to express affection and good intentions towards someone.
- Healing: The Geranium is believed to have healing properties, making it symbolic of health and recovery.
- Ingenuity: The resourcefulness of Geranium plants, which can thrive in various conditions, represent human creativity and adaptability.
WaterGeraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', prefer soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. It’s best to water these plants every 7 to 10 days, supplying about one to two gallons for each plant, depending on size and environmental conditions. Allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. Over the winter months, reduce watering to every two to three weeks.
LightThe geranium thrives under bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it receives at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid direct midday sun, which might scorch the leaves, but ensure it gets plenty of light to encourage flowering. An east- or west-facing window would be ideal indoors, while a lightly shaded spot works well outdoors.
TemperatureGeraniums, including Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', require temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can survive brief periods down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range for geraniums allows for robust growth and abundant flowering.
PruningPruning geraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', helps to promote bushier growth and prevents legginess. It's best to prune in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems, and cut back up to one-third of the plant to encourage new growth. Regularly deadheading spent blooms will also help in encouraging continuous flowering throughout the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Scented Geranium prefers well-draining soil with a mix of peat, perlite, and compost. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingScented Geraniums should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingScented Geraniums do best in average home humidity levels but can tolerate some dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, water when dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from harsh weather.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Orange Appeal', commonly known as Scented Geranium, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil. Upon sprouting, the seedling develops its first true leaves and establishes a root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant grows stems and a larger root system, along with distinctive fragrant leaves. It then reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, where it produces vibrant orange flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, if it occurs, the plant will set seed, completing the reproductive cycle. The Scented Geranium can then either die back at the end of the growing season in colder climates or continue living as a perennial in warmer zones, depending on the specific environmental conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Pelargonium 'Orange Appeal', commonly known as an Orange Scented Geranium, is best propagated in late winter to early spring before the plant begins its active growth phase. The most popular method of propagation is by cuttings. To propagate Orange Scented Geranium through cuttings, a 3 to 4 inch (about 7.5 to 10 cm) softwood stem section is cut from a healthy parent plant. The cutting should have at least three leaves or nodes. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then planted in a moistened mix of half peat and half perlite or sand and kept under indirect light. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, the cutting will typically develop roots and can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
