Scented Geranium Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz' (Sc)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz' is a vibrant and attractive plant well-known for its lovely appearance and citrus-scented foliage. The leaves are a luscious green and have a unique shape that may resemble a soft crinkle with slightly scalloped or toothed edges. When lightly touched or disturbed, the leaves release a refreshing orange aroma. The real show-stoppers, however, are its flowers. This variety of Pelargonium produces clusters of stunning blossoms that could be described as having a gentle hue of salmon-orange or a pinkish-orange color. Each flower exhibits rounded petals that sometimes have a faint touch of darker or lighter tones at their bases, giving them a multi-dimensional and radiant look. These flowers can bloom profusely under favorable conditions, bursting into a delightful display that's both eye-catching and aromatic. As with many plants in its family, Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz' emits a charming and warming presence that's often used in gardens not just for its visual allure but also for its pleasant scent that can even deter some pests. It's commonly grown in pots, containers, and sometimes gardens where their fragrance can be enjoyed up close, and the bright blossoms can be appreciated to their fullest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Scented Geranium, Orange Fizz Geranium
Common names
Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz'.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name of Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz' is scented geranium. Scented geraniums are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, they can cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals. If ingested in large quantities, they may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as nausea or diarrhea, but serious poisoning is rare.
To pets
Scented geraniums are known to be potentially toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. While not usually lethal, ingesting this plant can lead to vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis in pets. It is advisable to keep scented geraniums out of reach of pets to prevent possible discomfort or allergic reactions.
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
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The distinctive vibrant orange flowers and aromatically scented foliage make it an attractive addition to home gardens and landscapes.
- Aromatic Foliage: The plant’s leaves emit a pleasant citrusy scent when touched or brushed against, contributing to a sensory garden experience.
- Easy to Grow: It is generally easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance, which suits gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz' has a good tolerance for dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Container Gardening: Due to its compact size, it is well-suited for container gardening, allowing growers to enjoy it in small spaces or balconies.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Extended Blooming Season: It can provide colorful blooms for a long season, often from spring to fall, depending on the climate.
- Versatility: It can be used in mixed borders, flower beds, as a standalone accent plant, or combined with other plants in pots and hanging baskets.
- Culinary Use: Though not a primary purpose, the scented leaves can sometimes be used to flavor jellies, teas, and desserts, adding a unique twist to culinary endeavors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Herbal Bath Additive: Leaves of the Geranium 'Orange Fizz' can be added to baths for a fragrant and relaxing experience, as they infuse the water with their citrusy scent.
- Decorative Bookmarks: Dried Geranium 'Orange Fizz' leaves can be laminated or pressed between clear adhesive to create natural, fragrant bookmarks.
- Insect Repellent Sachets: The essential oils within 'Orange Fizz' leaves have been said to repel insects, making them useful in sachets to protect clothes in storage.
- Candle Making: The scented oils of the Geranium 'Orange Fizz' can be extracted and used in candle making to give a natural citrus fragrance to homemade candles.
- Cooking Herb: Some varieties of scented geraniums, such as 'Orange Fizz', can be used in small quantities to add flavor to desserts, jellies, and teas with their citrus undertones.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried leaves and flowers of the plant can be combined with other dried botanicals to create potpourri that adds a natural scent to your home.
- Plant Dye: The Geranium 'Orange Fizz' can be used as a natural dying agent for fabrics or paper, giving a light green hue when used in the dyeing process.
- Flavor Enhancer: Infusing sugar with bruised leaves of Geranium 'Orange Fizz' can impart a subtle citrus and floral flavor, ideal for baking or sweetening teas.
- Drawer Fresheners: Leaves and flowers tucked into drawers can keep linens and clothing smelling fresh with a mild, citrus scent.
- Art and Craft Material: Leaves can be used in various craft projects, such as making prints by painting the leaf and pressing it onto paper or fabric to create botanical designs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rejuvenation: The vibrant orange flowers of the geranium symbolize a sense of new beginnings and refreshment of spirit, akin to the invigorating fizz of a citrusy soda.
- Happiness: Geraniums are often associated with happiness and positive emotions, and the bright hue of Orange Fizz geraniums can be particularly uplifting.
- Creativity: The unique 'Orange Fizz' scent and color might inspire creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.
- Friendship: Geraniums are sometimes given as gifts to celebrate and strengthen friendships, with the orange variety signifying warm and joyful connections.
- Health: Traditionally, geraniums have symbolized good health, and the Orange Fizz with its zesty appearance promotes an energetic and healthy lifestyle.
WaterThe Scented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this plant prefers moderately moist soil, so depending on the environmental conditions, you might need to water it every 5 to 7 days. It is important to avoid overwatering; ensure the pot has drainage holes. When watering, apply enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes—approximately one to two gallons for an outdoor plant depending on size and weather conditions. During the winter months, reduce the frequency as the plant requires less water.
LightScented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' thrives best in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can lead to leaf scorch. The ideal spot would be in an east or west-facing window where it can receive morning or late afternoon sun. Avoid placing it in deep shade or full midday sun to prevent stress on the plant.
TemperatureScented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' prefers a temperature range between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive a minimum temperature of around 30 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. The maximum temperature it can tolerate is about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure good air circulation to maintain a stable temperature environment for the plant.
PruningPruning Scented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' helps maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Prune lightly throughout the growing season by pinching off stem tips. The best time for a more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Scented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' is well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. Organic matter like compost or peat moss can enrich the soil further to support its growth.
RepottingScented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' should typically be repotted every 1 to 2 years, or when it outgrows its current container. The best time for repotting is in the spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingScented Geranium 'Orange Fizz' prefers moderate to slightly dry humidity levels. It's adaptable to typical household humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, water when soil dries.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to part shade, protect from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Orange Fizz', commonly known as Scented Geranium, starts its life cycle as a seed. When conditions are favorable—typically in warm, well-drained soil—it germinates, producing small seedlings with characteristic lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a bushy growth habit with stems that can become woody over time. The plant reaches its flowering stage, displaying small clusters of blooms that can vary in color, often in shades of pink or purple, attracting pollinators. After pollination, it sets seeds that can be dispersed to give rise to new plants. In winter or during prolonged dry spells, the plant may enter a dormancy or semi-dormant state, reducing growth until conditions become suitable again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Pelargonium 'Orange Fizz', commonly known as scented geranium, can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, preferably in the spring or summer months when the plant's growth is most vigorous. The most popular method involves taking a healthy cutting about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long from the non-flowering stems to ensure the cutting's energy is not directed towards flower production. Stripping the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dipping the cut end into rooting hormone can enhance root development. The prepared cutting should then be placed in well-draining soil, such as a mix of peat and perlite, and kept moist until roots establish. A plastic cover or propagation dome can help maintain humidity levels conducive to rooting. With proper care, the cutting will develop roots within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a permanent location.
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