Scented Geranium Pelargonium 'Orsett' (Sc)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Orsett' (Sc), commonly referred to as a type of geranium, boasts a lush display of foliage and attractive flowers. The leaves of the geranium are generally rounded, with a soft green hue and often feature a noticeable pattern or texture, such as a quilted or velvety surface. These leaves may also exude a pleasant fragrance when brushed or crushed. The flowers of the 'Orsett' geranium are a standout feature, typically arranged in clusters known as inflorescences. Each individual flower is composed of five petals that usually exhibit a striking color, which can range from soft pastels to vibrant hues. These flowers often have contrasting color markings or veins that add to their ornamental appeal. Overall, the geranium presents a compact and bushy form, creating a full and rounded silhouette. It's an attractive plant that excels in garden borders, as well as in containers on patios or balconies, charming onlookers with its colorful and scented blooms. The geranium's appearance can vary greatly depending on environmental conditions, cultivation practices, and the specific cultivar, with 'Orsett' offering its unique set of aesthetic characteristics.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Orsett Scented Geranium, Orsett Geranium, Orsett Pelargonium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Orsett'.
ToxicityTo humans
Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, they can cause minor irritation when ingested, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In very rare cases, ingestion of large amounts can result in more severe symptoms.
To pets
Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, particularly to dogs and cats. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, depression, dermatitis, and in rare cases, hypotension. It's important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant to avoid these potential negative health consequences.
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: The Pelargonium 'Orsett', commonly known as Scented Geranium, adds vibrant color and texture to gardens with its attractive foliage and flowers.
- Fragrance: Scented Geraniums are known for their delightful fragrance, which can enhance the sensory experience of any garden or indoor space.
- Easy to Grow: These plants are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Scented Geraniums can be drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to many other plants, which is beneficial in water-scarce regions or for water-wise gardening.
- Insect Repellent: The aromatic leaves can help repel certain types of insects, which makes them a functional addition to gardens and outdoor seating areas.
- Edible Uses: The leaves of some Scented Geranium varieties are edible and can be used to flavor foods and beverages, although this should be done with caution and knowledge of the specific cultivar's safety for consumption.
- Versatility: These plants can be grown in containers, making them a good choice for balconies, patios, or indoor settings, as well as in garden beds and borders.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, can be used in aromatherapy due to their fragrant leaves; the 'Orsett' variant's unique scent can contribute to creating a calming and relaxing environment.
- The leaves of geraniums are sometimes incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a fresh, floral scent and can last for a long time when dried.
- Geranium plants can be used in natural dyeing processes; the petals and leaves can produce a range of colors from greens to browns on textiles and fibers.
- These plants can be placed around outdoor areas to add vibrant color to landscaping and to help create visually pleasing garden designs.
- The petals of geraniums can be used as a natural insect repellent when crushed and rubbed onto the skin, though effectiveness may vary.
- Edible geranium flowers can be crystallized with sugar and used as decorative, edible accents on desserts and cakes.
- Geranium leaves can be infused in water to create flavored ice cubes for a unique twist in drinks or cocktails.
- In crafts, the pressed flowers and leaves of geraniums can be used for making bookmarks, greeting cards, or in decoupage projects.
- Geraniums are also used in companion planting to deter pests from other plants in the garden, making them a useful natural pesticide alternative.
- The geranium 'Orsett' variety, with its attractive foliage and blooms, can be used in educational settings for botany studies and horticultural training.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Pelargonium, commonly known as Geranium, can be utilized in Feng Shui by placing them in areas where you wish to foster positive energy and good health, as they are believed to purify the air and promote a calming atmosphere. In the Bagua map, placing Geraniums in the Health (Tai Qi) area or the Family (Zhen) area may enhance these aspects of life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort: Pelargonium 'Orsett', commonly known as Scented Geranium, often symbolizes comfort due to its aromatic leaves which release a soothing fragrance when touched.
- Healing: Scented Geraniums are sometimes associated with healing properties, both physical and emotional, reflecting the plant's use in traditional remedies and aromatherapy.
- Happiness: The bright flowers and pleasant scent of the Scented Geranium can represent cheerfulness and bringing joy into one's life.
- Friendship: Given as a gift, a Scented Geranium may symbolize a close and comforting friendship, reflecting the plant's warm and inviting nature.
- Surprise: The variety of scents produced by different cultivars of Scented Geraniums can also suggest the pleasant surprises and diversity in life.
WaterScented geraniums like Pelargonium 'Orsett' should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means watering once every week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions like heat and humidity. When watering, apply water slowly at the base of the plant until excess water starts to drain from the bottom of the pot, indicating that the soil is fully saturated. During active growth in spring and summer, water with approximately one gallon depending on the size of the container, tapering off to lesser amounts as growth slows in the fall.
LightScented geraniums need bright, indirect light to thrive. They do well in an east- or west-facing window where they receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Avoiding direct midday sun is crucial to prevent leaf scorch, so a spot that provides morning or late afternoon sunlight is ideal for Pelargonium 'Orsett'.
TemperatureScented geraniums, such as Pelargonium 'Orsett', prefer moderate temperatures ranging between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but should be protected from frost. During the growing season, maintaining indoor temperatures within this range will promote healthy growth.
PruningPrune scented geraniums to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or yellowing leaves. This is best done in the spring, before the growth season begins. Cut back up to one-third of the plant, using sharp, clean shears. Regularly snipping off spent flowers will also promote continuous blooming throughout the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Scented Geraniums is light, well-draining, and fertile, with added perlite or sand for aeration. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingScented Geraniums should be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and prevent root-bound conditions. Choose a slightly larger pot when repotting.
Humidity & MistingScented Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to lower humidity conditions typical of indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full to partial sun, protect from strong winds and heavy rain.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA.
Life cyclePelargonium 'Orsett' (commonly known as Scented Geranium) begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in warm, well-draining soil or when cuttings are taken from mature plants to propagate new individuals. The seedlings or rooted cuttings will then enter a vegetative growth phase, developing a robust root system and foliage. Over time, the plant grows into a bushy form and begins to produce characteristic fragrant leaves, and under appropriate conditions, it will eventually produce small, delicate flowers, although the blooms are often less showy than the foliage. After the flowering stage and during the warmer seasons, the plant will enter a period of active growth and may require regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage fuller growth. As temperatures drop or the plant experiences drought, it will enter a dormancy phase, conserving energy and reducing growth rates until favorable conditions return. Finally, if allowed to go to seed, the Pelargonium 'Orsett' will produce seed pods that burst open to disperse seeds, thereby continuing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the Pelargonium 'Orsett', commonly known as scented geranium, is through stem cuttings. This can be done in late spring to early summer when growth is most vigorous. A healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches long is cut just below a node, and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end can be dipped into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity. Roots typically form within several weeks, after which the new scented geranium plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being moved to a permanent location.
