Zonal geranium Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' (Rushmoor River Series) (Za/d)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' is a distinctive plant known for its unique and vibrant features. This variety boasts a lush display of foliage, composed of rounded leaves with a slightly zonal pattern, which often presents as darker markings on the green surface. These leaves provide a textured, velvety backdrop for the standout blooms. The flowers are particularly eye-catching, typically arranged in clusters at the ends of sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. They exhibit a striking color palette with various shades of pinks, reds, purples, or even bicolored patterns, which contribute to its ornamental appeal. The individual blossoms are comprised of rounded petals that may have some ruffling or feathering on the edges, further enhancing their intricate beauty. The overall form of this Pelargonium is bushy and well-branched, creating an appearance of fullness and density that makes it a popular choice for container planting or as an accent in garden beds. As a member of the Rushmoor River Series, it epitomizes the hybrid vigor and floral abundance that this group is known for, providing a long-lasting display of color throughout the growing season. With proper care, the 'Rushmoor Amazon' can provide a lush and vibrant addition to any horticultural setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Zonal Geranium, Garden Geranium, Common Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon'
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon', are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. They are not known to contain any substances that are poisonous when ingested. However, consuming large quantities of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the irritation of the digestive tract, rather than chemical toxicity. Symptoms could include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
To pets
Geraniums, which include the Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon', are known to be toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause a variety of symptoms due to the presence of geraniol and linalool, which are toxic to animals. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, anorexia, depression, skin irritation, ataxia, and even allergic reactions. If you suspect that your pet has consumed any part of a geranium, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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: Adds vibrant colors and unique textures to gardens and indoor spaces with its eye-catching foliage and flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to various growing conditions, making it suitable for gardeners of different skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
- Container Gardening: Ideal for pots and containers, allowing for versatility in placement and garden design.
- Long Flowering Season: Offers a prolonged display of blooms, often from spring through to fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity and pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond basic watering and occasional feeding, making it an easy addition to any garden.
- Herbaceous: As a perennial, it can die back in winter and then re-grow in spring, providing a reliable garden feature.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: Pelargoniums can be used in the garden to repel pests such as leafhoppers and cabbage worms, making them beneficial companions for a variety of vegetables and flowers.
- Floral Arrangements: The vibrant blooms of Rushmoor Amazon can be cut and used in floral arrangements, adding a splash of color and a delicate scent to bouquets.
- Culinary Garnishes: The edible petals of Rushmoor Amazon can be used to embellish desserts and cocktails, though they should be used sparingly due to their potent flavor.
- Botanical Dyes: The flowers and leaves of Rushmoor Amazon can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or paper, yielding shades of pink and green.
- Plant Sculptures: Trained on a topiary form, Rushmoor Amazon can be shaped into decorative plant sculptures for ornamental garden displays or events.
- Educational Resource: Schools and educational programs can use Rushmoor Amazon to teach lessons on plant growth, reproduction, and horticulture.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and patterns of Rushmoor Amazon can be used by artists as a subject for paintings, drawings, and photography.
- Natural Sachets: Dried Rushmoor Amazon leaves and flowers can be used in homemade sachets to naturally freshen up closets and drawers with their pleasant aroma.
- Creative Potpourri: Mixing dried Rushmoor Amazon with other dried plants and essential oils can create customized potpourri blends for home fragrancing.
- Photography Prop: The Rushmoor Amazon plant can serve as an attractive backdrop or focal point in plant photography, given its rich colors and interesting foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Geranium (Common name for Pelargonium) - Symbolizes unity and true friendship, often representing feelings of comfort and companionship due to its long-lasting and familiar blooms.
- Good Health - Traditionally, the geranium plant has been associated with the promotion of good health and was historically used in gardens to repel evil spirits, suggesting protective qualities.
- Positive Emotions - With a variety of bright and cheerful colors, geraniums are often connected with positivity, happiness, and good spirits. The Rushmoor Amazon's vivid appearance may reinforce this meaning.
- Fertility and Fecundity - In some cultures, a lush and vibrant plant such as the geranium may represent fertility and abundance, potentially due to its prolific flowering habit.
- Ingenuity and Resourcefulness - Owing to geraniums' ability to adapt to various conditions and their widespread cultivation, they may symbolize human ingenuity and adaptability.
WaterScented geraniums like Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means watering once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on climate conditions and indoor temperature. When watering, aim to saturate the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, indicating it's sufficiently moistened. A rough guideline is to use about 1 gallon of water for a large pot, adjusting for smaller pots by using only a few ounces. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot and maintain plant health.
LightScented geraniums require bright, indirect light to thrive, making a spot near a south or west-facing window ideal. Avoid placing them in direct, harsh sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. Ensuring adequate light will keep the Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' healthy and promote flowering.
TemperaturePelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' prefers temperate conditions, thriving in temperatures between 55°F and 75°F. While they can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F, it's important to protect them from frost. During the growing season, maintain the ideal temperature range for optimal growth and flowering.
PruningPruning Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon' is essential for encouraging bushy growth and maintaining a compact shape. Perform pruning in early spring or after flowering by snipping off overgrown stems and deadheading spent blooms. Regularly remove any yellow or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Scented Geranium, which is the common name for Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon', is a light, well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingScented Geraniums should generally be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and encourage new growth. Repotting is also an opportunity to check for and address any root-related issues.
Humidity & MistingScented Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels, but they are quite adaptable and can tolerate indoor air without the need for additional humidity, making them well-suited for typical home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade; protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon', commonly known as a geranium, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination in warm, moist soil, develops into a seedling with basic root and shoot structures. As it grows, true leaves emerge, and it enters the vegetative stage, during which the plant experiences significant growth and produces a robust system of roots and leaves. Following the vegetative phase, the geranium reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, characterized by the production of vibrant blooms that attract pollinators and aid in sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, which contains seeds for the next generation. As the geranium is a perennial, it may enter a period of dormancy during colder months, only to resume active growth and re-enter the vegetative and flowering stages with the return of favorable conditions. The cycle can repeat for several years, with the plant potentially becoming larger and more prolific with each growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Pelargonium 'Rushmoor Amazon', commonly known as geranium, is typically propagated by cuttings. This method is favored for its efficiency and the speed at which new plants can be grown that are genetically identical to the parent. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering shoot about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is cut from the mother plant. The cut end is allowed to dry and callus for a few hours before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should then be placed in indirect light and kept consistently moist until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has established a robust root system, it can be transferred to a larger pot or directly into the garden. This straightforward method secures continued enjoyment of this beautiful and vibrant plant.
