Geranium Pelargonium 'Royal Princess' (R)
ABOUT
The Pelargonium 'Royal Princess' is a visually captivating plant commonly known as a geranium. It boasts lush, green foliage that forms a striking backdrop to its standout feature—vibrant, showy flowers. The blooms are notable for their richly saturated colors, which can range from deep pinks to reds, often with contrasting hues ornamenting their petals in the form of veining or darker blotches. Each flower cluster is composed of several individual florets that emerge in rounded umbels, creating a rounded, full appearance that is highly decorative. The leaves of the 'Royal Princess' geranium are equally attractive, with a broad, rounded shape often marked by a distinct, darker-colored zoning pattern. These patterns can give the leaves an almost hand-painted look, adding to the ornamental quality of the plant. The texture of the foliage is somewhat velvety, which invites one to touch and stroke the leaves. Stems of the 'Royal Princess' are sturdy, supporting the weight of the flowers and leaves admirably. The overall form of the plant is typically well-branched and bushy, making it an excellent choice for a lush garden display or as a focal point in a pot or container. In addition, this type of geranium has the added benefit of a pleasant scent. When brushed against or when the foliage is crushed, it can release a fragrant aroma which varies from plant to plant but often carries hints of citrus or mint. This sensory characteristic makes it a delightful addition to any space where fragrance is appreciated. Overall, the 'Royal Princess' geranium is admired not only for its beauty but also for its ability to add a splash of color and sensual delight in gardens, balconies, and indoor environments, without the specific consideration of its dimensions in terms of size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Geranium, Storksbill.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Royal Princess'
ToxicityTo humans
Generally, geraniums, including Pelargonium 'Royal Princess', are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, some people may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have sensitive skin or if they ingest a significant amount of the plant. Symptoms could include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of the plant and to supervise children to ensure they do not consume plant material.
To pets
Geraniums (Pelargonium 'Royal Princess') are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion could potentially result in more serious conditions like kidney failure, so it is important to keep these plants out of reach of pets and seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 feet 12 inches (30-35 cm)
Spread
1 feet 12 inches (30-35 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The plant features lush, vibrant flowers that add a pop of color to any garden or indoor setting.
- Easy Maintenance: It is known for being relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive.
- Climate Resilient: It can adapt to a variety of climates, making it a versatile choice for gardeners in different regions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant has a good level of drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Rapid Growth: Offers the satisfaction of quick visual results as it can grow and fill spaces in a relatively short time.
- Pest Resistance: Has a natural resistance to many common garden pests, making it easier to keep healthy without the use of pesticides.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: The scent of geraniums has been noted to repel mosquitoes and other insects, making them useful in gardens or on patios where insects are a nuisance.
- Companion Planting: Geraniums can be planted among vegetables and other plants to help deter pests due to their strong scent.
- Natural Dye: The flowers of the Royal Princess geranium can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oils from geraniums can be used in aromatherapy for their fragrance which is believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of geranium flowers can be used as a decorative and flavorful garnish in salads and desserts.
- Flavoring Agent: The leaves of scented geraniums can impart unique flavors to sugar, jellies, and baked goods when infused.
- Sachets and Potpourri: Dried geranium leaves and flowers can be used in sachets or potpourri mixes to freshen and scent drawers, closets, and rooms.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant flowers and unique leaf patterns of the Royal Princess geranium can serve as artistic inspiration for painters and photographers.
- Skin Care: Geranium oil, if diluted properly, is sometimes used in DIY skin care routines aiming for its perfuming effects, yet avoid direct use without expert consultation.
- Crafts and Decorations: The colorful flowers of geraniums can be used in various crafts, including making floral crowns or decorating tables for special events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium, as Pelargonium 'Royal Princess' is commonly known, can be utilized in Feng Shui to create a calming atmosphere and promote good health. It is often placed in areas that need vibrant yet harmonious energy, such as living rooms and workplaces, to energize the space and foster well-being.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance: The 'Royal Princess' Geranium, with its regal name and delicate flowers, is often associated with grace and poise, symbolizing a dignified beauty.
- Nobility: Reflective of its royal title, the Geranium represents an air of nobleness and grandeur, indicative of a person's noble character or high standing in society.
- Longevity: With the ability to bloom abundantly and for an extended period, the Geranium often symbolizes long life and good health.
- Friendship: Often given as a gift between friends, Geraniums symbolize close bonds and mutual respect, relating to the way the plant is cherished in social circles.
- Happiness: The bright, colorful flowers of the Geranium are reminiscent of cheerfulness and positive vibes, making it a symbol of joy and happiness.
WaterGeraniums, like the Pelargonium 'Royal Princess', require even moisture, meaning the soil should be kept moist but not overly wet. It's best to water these plants deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings. During hot weather, they may need water more often. When watering, aim to pour water directly onto the soil rather than over the leaves to prevent disease. Depending on the size of the pot and the climate, you might use approximately one to two gallons of water per week.
LightThe Geranium 'Royal Princess' thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day. A spot near a south-facing window would be ideal, but make sure to protect it from intense midday sun which can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureGeraniums prefer a temperature range of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees at night as it can damage the plant. They can generally tolerate brief periods of higher temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can cause stress to the plant. The ideal conditions for geraniums include being kept away from drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningGeraniums benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and to remove leggy, spent, or damaged stems. Prune the 'Royal Princess' geraniums in early spring and throughout the growing season as needed. Cut back up to one-third of the plant to promote new growth and more abundant flowering. The best time to prune is just before new growth begins, typically after the last frost in your area.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeranium 'Royal Princess' thrives in well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and compost. A pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal for this plant.
RepottingGeraniums like 'Royal Princess' should be repotted every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their current pot.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Royal Princess' does well in average room humidity levels but doesn't require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Geranium 'Royal Princess' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Geranium 'Royal Princess' in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
9-12 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Royal Princess', commonly known as Geranium 'Royal Princess', begins its life cycle when seeds are sown and germinate, usually in spring or early summer. The seedlings rapidly establish a rosette of leaves and a strong root system. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative growth phase, developing stems and more leaves, and in the right conditions, it will quickly reach the flowering stage. The flowering period can last throughout the summer and into fall, during which the plant produces clusters of brightly colored flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds are formed and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Once flowering diminishes, the plant may enter a period of dormancy in colder climates or continue growing in milder conditions, with proper care and pruning encouraging future growth and blooming cycles.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Royal Princess', commonly known as geranium, is most effectively propagated through stem cuttings. This can be done in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. A healthy, non-flowering stem is selected and cut with a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors, making sure the cutting is about 4-6 inches long (10-15 cm). The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, watering it lightly, and placing it in warm conditions with indirect sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, at which point the new geranium plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the garden.
