Voodoo Geranium Pelargonium 'Voodoo' (U)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Voodoo' is an attractive plant that is known for its unique and striking appearance. It features richly colored foliage that create a lush backdrop for its blooms. The leaves of this plant are typically green, but they may have a zonal pattern with darker marking, which adds a decorative touch to the overall look of the plant. During the blooming season, 'Voodoo' produces eye-catching flowers that are usually deep red or burgundy, complementing the foliage with a dramatic contrast. These flowers can be quite showy, emerging in clusters on tall stems that rise above the main body of the plant. The blooms may display shades that can range from almost black-red to a vibrant, velvety hue. The petals of these flowers are rounded with a soft texture and may have a lighter or darker center, adding depth to their appearance. The overall impression of Pelargonium 'Voodoo' is one of rich color and lush growth, with a somewhat exotic and mystical appeal that can make it a prominent feature in any plant collection or garden setting where the climate is suitable.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Voodoo Geranium, Voodoo Pelargonium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Voodoo'
ToxicityTo humans
Geraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Voodoo', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, some people may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have sensitive skin upon handling the plant. Ingesting parts of the plant is not recommended, as it can potentially cause minor gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, though reports of serious consequences in humans from ingesting geraniums are relatively rare.
To pets
Geraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Voodoo', can be toxic to pets if ingested. The most common symptoms of geranium poisoning in pets, particularly in cats and dogs, include vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In rare cases, ingestion can also lead to more severe symptoms such as hypotension (low blood pressure) or hyperthermia (elevated body temperature). If you suspect your pet has ingested geranium, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
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- Ornamental Appeal: Pelargonium 'Voodoo' adds visual interest to gardens and indoor spaces with its vibrant and unique flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: The plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and regions with low rainfall.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care and can thrive with basic gardening practices, making it ideal for novice gardeners or those with busy schedules.
- Pest Resistance: This variety is known for being resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Long Blooming Season: Pelargonium 'Voodoo' produces flowers for extended periods, often from spring to fall, providing long-lasting color.
- Container Gardening: It performs well in pots and containers, allowing for flexibility in placement and making it perfect for balconies and patios.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide nectar and attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pelargonium 'Voodoo' can be used in potpourri mixes for its fragrant leaves, adding a unique scent profile.
- These plants can be used in educational settings such as schools for teaching children about plant growth and care.
- The Pelargonium 'Voodoo's vibrant flowers can be used as a natural dye for fabrics or paper, giving them a soft, earthy tone.
- They serve as beautiful and natural decorations for cakes and pastries when crystallized or used fresh as garnish.
- Pelargonium 'Voodoo' can be planted as a companion plant in gardens to help deter specific pests with their strong scent.
- The dried leaves and flowers can be used in homemade sachets to freshen up drawers and wardrobes.
- They are used in landscaping to create contrasting foliage displays due to their unique leaf patterns and colors.
- The flowers and foliage can be used in crafting, for example in making pressed flower bookmarks or cards.
- Pelargonium 'Voodoo' can be a base plant for terrariums, providing structure and color to the mini eco-system.
- The scented leaves can be infused into oils or waters to create natural room fresheners or spritzes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Magic and Enchantment - Pelargonium 'Voodoo', commonly known as 'Voodoo Geranium', often represents an aura of magic and enchantment, possibly due to its mysterious and evocative name.
- Protection - Historically, geraniums have symbolized protection, and 'Voodoo' may suggest a stronger, mystical form of safeguarding against negative energies.
- Healing - Geraniums are also associated with healing properties, and the 'Voodoo' variety may imply a deeper, spiritual healing or transformation.
- Mystery - The name 'Voodoo' itself evokes a sense of mystery and the unknown, which can symbolize the allure and intrigue of the unknown aspects of life.
WaterGeraniums like the 'Voodoo' variety should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the active growing season, this typically means watering once every 1 to 2 weeks, but frequency should decrease during the cooler, dormant months to prevent overwatering. Provide about half a gallon of water per plant, ensuring it is poured directly over the soil and not on the foliage to avoid leaf rot. Always check the soil moisture before watering and adjust accordingly, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
LightGeraniums such as 'Voodoo' perform best with 6 to 8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day. They thrive in conditions where they can get morning sun and afternoon shade, particularly in hot climates. An eastern-facing spot that avoids the intense heat of the afternoon sun is ideal for keeping your geranium healthy and promoting vibrant blooms.
TemperatureGeraniums, including the 'Voodoo' variety, prefer temperate climates with day time temperatures between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and night time temperatures not dipping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate brief periods of higher temperatures but should be protected from frost, as they cannot survive temperatures below freezing.
PruningPrune Geraniums like 'Voodoo' to encourage bushy growth and to remove old or dead growth, which can help prevent disease. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. You can also deadhead, or remove spent flowers, throughout the booming season to promote continuous flowering. Prune geraniums every few months or as needed to maintain shape and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, require a soil mix that provides good drainage while retaining moisture. A recommended soil recipe for Pelargonium 'Voodoo' would include equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil to promote strong growth. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGeranium 'Voodoo' should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The best time to repot is in the early spring, just before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGeranium 'Voodoo' thrives in average household humidity levels ranging from 40% to 60%. They do not require high humidity environments, making them suitable for most indoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePelargonium 'Voodoo', commonly known as Voodoo Geranium, begins its life as a seed that germinates in warm, well-draining soil with adequate moisture. As a young seedling, it focuses on developing a strong root system and foliage through the process of photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it begins to produce its distinctive foliage and, eventually, its striking, dark red flowers during the growing season. After flowering, it may produce seeds, which can be collected for propagation, although many cultivars are more commonly propagated through cuttings. The plant reaches maturity within a few months and can continue to grow and bloom for several years, particularly if it is protected from frost and properly overwintered indoors or in a temperate climate. As a perennial, Voodoo Geranium enters a period of dormancy during the colder months and then resumes growth as temperatures rise in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Voodoo', commonly known as a type of Geranium, is most commonly propagated by stem cuttings. This method is usually done in late summer to early fall. To propagate via stem cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering shoot should be chosen. The cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long and the lower leaves carefully removed. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development, though this is optional. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix and placed in a warm spot with indirect light. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the cutting has established roots, which typically takes a few weeks.
