Regal Geranium - Pelargonium × domesticum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Regal Geranium

Also known as: Martha washington geranium

A symbol of friendship, the regal Geranium or Pelargonium × domesticum, grows decadent flowers with an equally lovely fragrance. Beautiful trumpeted shaped flowers are available in a variety of bright colors including purple, pink, red, or white, and are surrounded by soft, velvet leaves. This houseplant loves summer and can be taken outside when the weather is warm.

Scientific classification

Species

Regal Geranium (Pelargonium × domesticum)

Geraniums, bridal wreaths, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green, Black

Leaf Color

1.8 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Culture

Garden Use

Abundant, long-lasting blooms and a characteristic fragrance -- these are the major appeals of regal Geranium for gardeners and the main reason it is the most popularly sold plant in retail garden stores. It is frequently grown in containers on patios, windowsills, hanging pots, or in garden beds in groups as a statement plant.

Symbolism

Friendship, happiness and positive emotions

Interesting Facts

Regal Geranium, like many related species, are relatively resistant to deer. That's good news for enthusiasts of the flowers, but gardeners must still be on the lookout for caterpillars. Many species of the Lepidoptera insects (moths and butterflies) will happily munch away at regal Geranium leaves in their caterpillar form.

Name Story

Regal pelargonium: Members of the Pelargonium genus were originally classified with the Geranium genus. Now, though the scientific names have diverged, they are both often called "geraniums." To keep a common theme, though, botanist Johann Jacob Dellenius chose to call the new genus by the Greek word for "stork" while Geranium is Greek for "crane."

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Regal Geranium, including the following common varieties :

Pelargoniums 'Spanish Angel'

Toxicity

Regal Geranium is mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingestion of a significant quantity of any part of regal Geranium can cause symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, or illness. Prompt veterinary care is essential if symptoms occur after exposure to ensure appropriate treatment and management of the pet's health.

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Care Guide for Regal Geranium

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Regal Geranium thrives in subtropical regions, needing regular moisture and moderate humidity. Water weekly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. As an evergreen, regal Geranium benefits from consistent soil moisture for year-round foliage and flower display, especially when grown indoors.

Fertilize: Fertilize regal Geranium with high phosphorus fertilizers to enhance blooms. Use a balanced, water-soluble formula bi-weekly in growth season and monthly in winter. Apply half-strength to avoid harm, adjusting based on size. Seasonal feeding aligns with regal Geranium's metabolic cycle for optimal health.

Pruning: Regal Geranium thrives with regular pruning to maintain shape and enhance flowering. Prune in early spring or late winter, cutting back one-third and removing weak stems. Deadheading promotes longer blooms, while proper pruning improves air circulation and reduces disease, fostering a healthier plant.

Propagation: Regal Geranium is propagated via cuttings from healthy, disease-free, semi-ripe stems with multiple leaf nodes. Rooting hormone enhances success when planted in well-draining soil. Maintaining consistent moisture and warm temperatures is crucial for establishing a strong root system while handling cuttings carefully.

Repotting: Repot regal Geranium in early spring to support growth, using spacious containers every two to three years. After repotting, provide well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Bright, indirect light promotes recovery and enhances regal Geranium's vibrant blooms.

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Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Regal Geranium

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