Geranium Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered (Dw/d)
ABOUT
Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered, commonly known as geranium, features showy white blossoms that stand out vividly against the plant's backdrop of luscious greenery. Each flower presents with an array of rounded petals that are pure white in color, sometimes showing subtle hints of cream or light green at the very center where the petals meet the floral core. The blooms are clustered atop slender stalks, creating an impression of a delicate floral canopy. The leaves of the white-flowered geranium are equally attractive, boasting a rich green hue, with a slightly zonal pattern that can sometimes be observed. The foliage is quite lush, with individual leaves exhibiting a rounded shape, often with irregular edges that can be toothed or scalloped. The leaf surface is slightly ruffled, which provides texture and depth, enhancing the overall luxurious appearance of the plant. Together, the contrast between the pure white flowers and the robust green foliage offers a display that is both graceful and vibrant. The aesthetics of this geranium variety make it an appealing choice for gardeners and those looking to add a touch of elegance to their plant collection.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Geranium, Zonal Geranium, Fish Geranium.
Common names
Pelargonium 'Fantasia' White-Flowered (Dw/d).
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered (Dw/d) is Geranium. Geraniums are not considered highly toxic to humans; however, they can cause minor skin irritations when handled. If ingested, they might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is generally advisable to avoid eating any part of the geranium plant.
To pets
Geraniums are considered toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a geranium plant, it could experience symptoms including vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. In more severe cases, ingestion could potentially lead to more serious health issues. It is recommended to keep geraniums out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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- Attractive blooms: Pelargonium 'Fantasia' features striking white flowers that add visual interest to any garden or patio.
- Long flowering season: It typically blooms for extended periods, providing a long-lasting display of color.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suited for gardens with low water availability.
- Easy to grow: These plants are known for being low maintenance and easy to care for, ideal for beginner gardeners.
- Adaptable: They can be grown in containers or garden beds, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Pest resistance: They have a natural resistance to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Potpourri ingredient: The scented leaves of geraniums can be dried and used in potpourri mixtures to add a pleasant fragrance to your home.
- Flavoring for food: The leaves of some geranium species can be used to flavor sugars, desserts, or jellies with a subtle hint of lemon or rose.
- Natural dye: Geranium flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabric, though it may not be as colorfast as commercial dyes.
- Companion planting: Geraniums are often planted in vegetable gardens because they can repel certain pests, helping to protect vegetables naturally.
- Garden design: The white flowers of the 'Fantasia' variety can be used to create a moon garden, where pale flowers glow in the twilight.
- Photography subject: Gardeners and photographers might use the striking white blooms as subjects for botanical photography.
- Crafts: The blooms and foliage can be used in floral crafts, such as making wreaths or decorating gift boxes.
- Educational use: Geraniums can be used in school projects to teach students about plant care and horticulture.
- Art supplies: Pressed geranium flowers can be used in art projects, including creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or adding embellishments to mixed media art.
- Aromatherapy: While not a direct application, the fragrance of geranium leaves can contribute to a relaxing atmosphere and is sometimes used in aromatherapy practices.
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: The Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, often symbolizes comfort and ease because of its pleasant scent and familiar presence in home gardens.
- Purity: With its white flowers, this particular variety suggests purity and innocence, similar to the way white blooms are used in various cultural ceremonies to signify cleanliness and virtue.
- Unexpected friendship: Geraniums are also associated with unexpected friendship, as they can easily be shared and propagated among friends, often becoming tokens of connection and bonds.
- Happiness: The bright and cheerful nature of the geranium makes it a symbol of happiness and good spirits, making it a popular plant for cheerful home environments.
- Healing: Traditionally, geraniums have been used for their healing properties in folk medicine, and thus they are often related to health and recovery.
WaterGeraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered, should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ideally, water every 7 to 10 days, but this can vary based on climate conditions and indoor temperatures. Use enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes, typically around 1/2 to 1 gallon for a pot with a diameter of 10 to 12 inches. During the winter months, reduce watering to every two weeks, as the plant's growth slows down. Always avoid letting the plants sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightGeraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered, thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They perform best with at least six hours of sunlight per day, preferably provided by an east or west-facing window. If placed outdoors, ensure they receive morning sunlight and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureGeraniums like the Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered do best in temperatures ranging between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night and should not be exposed to temperatures over 85 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods as it can stress the plant. The ideal growing conditions are those that mimic their native subtropical environment, with warm days and cooler nights.
PruningGeraniums, including the Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered, benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Prune in early spring before new growth starts, cutting back up to one-third of the plant. Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent blooms and remove any yellow or brown leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and promote more flowering. Prune again lightly in late summer to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGeraniums like well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil works well for Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered.
RepottingGeraniums should be repotted annually to replenish soil and encourage growth. Repot Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered in the spring.
Humidity & MistingGeraniums prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. Aim for about 40-60% humidity for Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade; protect from frost and harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the white-flowered Geranium 'Fantasia' typically starts with seed germination, which occurs when soil temperatures and moisture levels are appropriate, leading to the emergence of seedlings. Following germination, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing a rosette of leaves and a root system. As the plants mature, they enter the vegetative stage where they produce more leaves and branches, growing in size and strength. Upon reaching maturity, the geraniums begin the reproductive stage, flowering prolifically with distinctive white blooms, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, fertilized flowers develop seeds within capsules that eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. The geranium may also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings which root and grow, repeating the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pelargonium 'Fantasia' white-flowered, commonly known as geranium, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The optimal time for taking cuttings is late summer to early fall, which allows the cuttings to establish a strong root system before the winter. To propagate, a healthy, non-flowering stem is selected and a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length is made. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to provide the cutting with bright, indirect light and to avoid direct sun until the plant has rooted, which generally takes a few weeks.
