Geranium Pelargonium 'Rodomont' (I)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Rodomont', commonly known as a type of geranium, typically has a lush and vibrant appearance. The foliage of the plant is rich green and often has a unique interplay of shapes and textures. The leaves may have a rounded yet slightly lobed form that gives them an ornamental characteristic. The geranium 'Rodomont' is well-loved for its striking blooms. The flowers are clustered together in umbel-like formations, which create a delightful display of color. These blossoms can vary in shade, ranging from vivid pinks to deep reds, often boasting intricate patterning or veining that enhances their visual appeal. The petals are rounded with a soft, velvety texture, and they might have pointed tips, adding to the plant's overall charm. This variety impresses with its extended blooming period, presenting gardeners and plant enthusiasts with a prolonged show of its floral beauty. The contrast between the bright flowers and the darker green foliage is quite eye-catching, making the Pelargonium 'Rodomont' a cherished addition to ornamental gardens, pots, or hanging baskets, where it adds a dash of color without the context of its size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Storksbill, Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Rodomont'
ToxicityTo humans
Pelargonium 'Rodomont', commonly known as a type of geranium, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingestion of this plant in small quantities typically does not cause serious harm. However, some people may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have sensitivity to the plant. Symptoms of this can include skin rashes, and if ingested, might result in minor gastrointestinal upset such as nausea or diarrhea. It is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of children, as they are more susceptible to potential irritants and their smaller body size makes them more vulnerable to even mild toxins.
To pets
In pets, Pelargonium 'Rodomont', commonly known as a type of geranium, is considered to have a level of toxicity. If ingested by pets, particularly cats and dogs, the plant can cause a range of symptoms due to the presence of geraniol and linalool, which are toxic to pets. These symptoms may include vomiting, anorexia, depression, dermatitis, and in some cases, ataxia. It is important to keep this plant away from pets and seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a geranium plant.
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 'Rodomont', commonly known as geranium, offers vibrant blooms that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Versatility: Geraniums can be grown in pots, containers, or garden beds, making them suitable for various gardening styles and spaces.
- Drought Resistance: As a drought-resistant plant, geraniums are ideal for areas with water restrictions or for gardeners seeking low-maintenance flora.
- Easy Propagation: Geraniums can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create new plants and expand their collection without additional cost.
- Long Blooming Season: With a long flowering period, geraniums provide color and interest throughout much of the growing season.
- Pest Deterrent: Geraniums are known to repel certain insects, making them a practical choice for natural pest management in gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering and deadheading, geraniums are an excellent option for beginner gardeners or those with limited time.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargonium 'Rodomont', commonly known as geranium, can be used to make floral jellies and syrups, incorporating its subtle fragrance and flavor into sweet dishes.
- Its petals can be frozen in ice cubes to add an elegant touch to summer beverages, imparting a mildly floral note upon melting.
- Dried geranium petals can be used to infuse sugars, creating perfumed sugars that can be used in baking or to sweeten tea.
- The leaves and flowers of geranium can be used in homemade potpourris, providing a soothing and long-lasting scent to living spaces.
- Some crafters use the vibrant flowers to make botanical paper, adding color and texture to handmade cards and artwork.
- The plant can be integrated into a natural dye process, where its parts yield various shades when applied to fabrics or yarns.
- Geranium leaves can serve as natural confetti at weddings or celebrations, being biodegradable and adding a splash of color without the negative environmental impact.
- Pressed geranium flowers can be used as decorative elements in resin jewelry, capturing the beauty of the plant within wearable art pieces.
- When gardening, planting geraniums can help to repel certain pests, acting as a companion plant that benefits vegetables and other herbs.
- The essential oil extracted from geranium leaves has been historically used as an ingredient in some natural perfumes and aromatherapy products.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Comfort: Geraniums are often associated with comfort and soothing feelings, perhaps due to their familiar scent and appearance in many home gardens.
- Friendship: Sharing a geranium plant or giving it as a gift can be a symbol of deep friendship and kinship.
- Health: Some cultures believe geraniums have health-promoting properties, making them symbolic of good health and wellness.
- Positive Emotions: The bright flowers and pleasant aroma of geraniums encapsulate positivity, evoking happiness and uplifted spirits.
- Stability: Geraniums are hardy plants that can symbolize stability and reliability in a person's life or home.
WaterGeraniums require moderate watering, and it's vital to let the topsoil dry out slightly between waterings. Water these plants deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically amounts to about once a week. However, frequency can vary based on temperature and humidity — less often in cool, damp conditions and more frequently in hot, dry climates. It's better to underwater than overwater, as geraniums do not like to sit in wet soil. Depending on the size of the pot and environmental conditions, you may need approximately 8-16 ounces of water every 7 days. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightGeraniums prefer bright, indirect light and will also thrive in areas with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid placing them in intense, midday sun, especially during the hottest parts of summer, as this can cause leaf scorch. A spot in your home near a south-facing or west-facing window with plenty of light works best, but ensure some shade or filtered light during the high heat of the afternoon.
TemperatureGeraniums are comfortable in a temperature range of about 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can survive temporarily outside this range. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, as they are not frost-hardy and will suffer damage or die. Ideally, keep your geraniums in a location where the temperature remains consistent, avoiding drafts and sudden fluctuations in temperature.
PruningPruning geraniums is essential to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off spent flower heads and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Cut back leggy stems to about half their length to promote new growth. The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins, but light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to maintain shape and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for a Geranium, commonly known as Pelargonium 'Rodomont', should be well-draining and fertile, consisting of a balanced mix of peat, perlite, and compost. The suitable soil pH range for geraniums is between 6.0 and 7.0 to ensure proper nutrient absorption.
RepottingGeraniums, including Pelargonium 'Rodomont', should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in early spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums, like Pelargonium 'Rodomont', prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. They thrive in typical household humidity levels, which range from 40% to 60%, without needing any special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Geraniums in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant Geraniums in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
9-12 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Rodomont', commonly known as Regal Geranium or Royal Pelargonium, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in well-draining soil and exposed to warmth and light, leading to germination. Next, seedlings develop true leaves and are transplanted when large enough to handle, growing into young plants. These plants then enter a vegetative growth stage, where leaves and stems actively expand and grow, provided with ample sunlight and water. As the plant matures, it produces distinctive flowers, commonly in the spring and summer, that are often vibrantly colored and attract pollinators. After flowering, if pollinated, the plant may produce seeds, allowing the life cycle to begin anew. Once the flowering season concludes, a period of dormancy or reduced growth may occur in cooler climates or during the winter months, with proper care allowing the plant to survive and re-enter the growth and flowering stages in the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Pelargonium 'Rodomont', often referred to by the common name geranium, is a popular plant for home gardens due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The most popular method of propagation for geraniums is through stem cuttings. This typically takes place during late winter or early spring just before the active growing season begins. To propagate, a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches long is cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of success. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, well-lit area, avoiding direct sunlight, which can be too intense. The soil is kept moist but not waterlogged to encourage root development, usually over a period of a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted if desired.
