Geranium Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' (Z)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red', more commonly known as geranium, is notable for its strikingly vibrant, carmine-red flowers. These blooms are typically rounded clusters of petal-packed blossoms that create a showy and lush display. The petals themselves are velvety to the touch and may have subtle veins or darker markings that only add to their charm. The color of the flowers is a deep, rich red that can add a bold pop of color to any setting. The foliage of this geranium is equally attractive, with leaves that are usually green and sometimes exhibit a zonal pattern. This pattern may appear as a darker green ring or zone on the leaves, providing a contrast that complements the bright floral display. The leaves are broadly rounded, with a softer, lobed edge, and they are known for their aromatic qualities when touched or brushed against, releasing a pleasant scent. The overall appearance of Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' is of a lush, bushy plant that presents its flowers atop upright stems, allowing for a striking visual when in full bloom. This geranium serves as an excellent choice for adding a splash of color to gardens, patios, or even indoor spaces. It can be grown in pots, containers, or directly in the ground, depending on the preference of the gardener and the conditions of the environment where it is cultivated.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Vogue Carmine Red Geranium, Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red'
Common names
Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' (Z).
- Toxicity
To humans
The most common common name for Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' (Z) is Geranium. Geraniums are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, ingestion of the plant can potentially cause minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some individuals. Contact with the skin can sometimes result in dermatitis or skin irritation.
To pets
Geraniums are known to be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of a Geranium, it may exhibit symptoms of poisoning which can include vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In some cases, ingesting Geraniums can also lead to more severe symptoms, but this is relatively rare. Pet owners should keep these plants out of reach and contact a veterinarian if they suspect their pet has ingested part of the plant.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Carmine Red
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 red flowers to gardens and landscapes, enhancing visual interest.
- Easy Maintenance: Known for being low maintenance and not requiring extensive care to thrive.
- Drought Tolerance: Able to withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardens.
- Long Blooming Season: Often blooms for extended periods of time, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
- Pest Resistance: Naturally resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Adaptability: Capable of growing in a variety of soil types, making it versatile for different garden settings.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, allowing for flexibility in garden design and use in limited spaces.
- Attracts Wildlife: Can attract butterflies and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Pelargoniums can be used in potpourri for their scented leaves, which retain fragrance when dried.
- The leaves of scented pelargoniums can be infused in oils and vinegars, adding a subtle aroma to culinary creations.
- The petals of some pelargonium varieties are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Pelargoniums can be planted among vegetable gardens to help deter certain pests with their strong scent.
- Dried pelargonium leaves can be incorporated into homemade sachets to impart fragrance in drawers and closets.
- The flowers can be used in crafts such as pressed flower art, due to their vibrant colors and longevity when pressed.
- Pelargoniums can be floating decorations in water bowls for events, adding a touch of elegance and color.
- The plants can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, yielding various shades depending on the part of the plant used.
- Certain pelargonium leaves can be used to add flavor when baking goods such as cookies or cakes, similar to how one might use rosemary.
- When conducting horticultural therapy sessions, pelargoniums provide a sensory-rich plant for participants to engage with due to their varied textures and scents.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Comfort: Geraniums, typically, symbolize comfort and familiarity, which can extend to the Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' for its ability to bring a homely feeling.
- Friendship: Given as a gift, they impart wishes of happiness and promote positive friendships.
- Healing: The geranium is often associated with health and healing, implying a wish for well-being.
- Sturdiness: Reflecting their hardy nature, these plants can symbolize durability and the ability to persist through challenges.
- Harmony: The balanced growth and blossoms can represent harmony in life or relationships.
- Good Luck: Geraniums are occasionally thought to bring good luck, especially when planted at the entrance to a home.
- Water
Geraniums like the Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red' should be watered deeply but infrequently, as they prefer the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Generally, watering once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant is a good rule of thumb, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. During hot, dry spells, they may need more frequent watering, while in cooler or rainy periods, they may require less. It's important not to let them sit in waterlogged soil, so ensure pots have good drainage. If the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water your geraniums again.
- Light
Geraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red,' thrive in bright, indirect light and can also tolerate full sun for at least six hours a day. The ideal spot for these plants is in an east- or south-facing window where they receive plenty of light without the harsh midday sun, which can sometimes be too intense and lead to leaf scorch.
- Temperature
Geraniums, particularly Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red,' do best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, but can tolerate temperatures as low as 55°F and as high as 80°F. They should be protected from frost, which can damage or kill the plant, and from extreme heat, which can stress it.
- Pruning
Pruning Geraniums, including Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red,' is necessary to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Prune in early spring before the growing season, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote more flowering. Cut back to just above a leaf node or strong stem section.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Geraniums prefer well-draining potting soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of peat, perlite, and compost works well to ensure good drainage and aeration.
- Repotting
Geraniums should be repotted annually, or when they outgrow their current pot, to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Geraniums do best in moderate ambient humidity, around 40-60%, avoiding excessively dry or overly humid environments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and monitor soil moisture.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade to full sun with moist soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
- Life cycle
Geranium 'Vogue Carmine Red' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in early spring, given adequate warmth and moisture. The seedling emerges, producing true leaves and establishing a small root system. As a young plant, it enters a period of rapid vegetative growth where it develops a bushy structure and extensive root system. Upon reaching maturity, the geranium produces vibrant carmine red blossoms from late spring through summer, attracting pollinators. Following the flowering phase, if conditions permit, it will set seeds that eventually dry and disperse, potentially giving rise to new plants. In climates with cold winters, the geranium can enter dormancy or die, while in milder regions it may persist as a perennial, ready to restart the cycle come the next growing season.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Summer
For Pelargonium 'Vogue Carmine Red', commonly known as geranium, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This is typically done in late summer to early fall. To propagate, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) section just below a leaf node using a sharp, clean knife or scissors. Remove leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end into a rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting soil or a soilless mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect, keeping the cutting humid. Place the pot in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Roots usually develop within 4 to 8 weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before planting it outdoors in the spring.