Geranium, vanilla, rose, touch, fragrant

Scientific name: Pelargonium graveolens

Common names: vanilla geranium, rose geranium, touch geranium

Family and genus: Geraniaceae, Geranium

Origin:

Native to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. It is widely cultivated in greenhouses throughout China.

Plant Form:

A perennial herb with fleshy stems that become woody at the base and are highly branched. All parts of the plant have a distinct, aromatic scent. The leaves are alternate, round or kidney-shaped, with a heart-shaped base. They often feature distinctive horseshoe-shaped dark markings on the surface. The leaf edges are wavy and toothed, and the petioles vary in length. Flowers are arranged in umbels at the top of the stems, with drooping flower buds except during the hottest summer months. Flowering occurs throughout most of the year, except in extreme heat.

Growing Habits:

Geraniums prefer mild temperatures and are not frost-tolerant. In temperate regions, they must be grown indoors during winter. They dislike intense summer heat and require partial shade during hot periods, when they may enter a semi-dormant state. They thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. Well-drained, fertile soil is ideal for healthy growth.

Propagation Methods:

Geraniums can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings. Cuttings are best taken from July to August, but can also be done in other seasons. Select strong, healthy branches about 10 cm long. Allow them to dry for a few hours, then remove one or two leaves. Insert the cuttings into clean river sand about 3 cm deep. Keep them in a shaded area and maintain moist soil. Rooting usually takes around a month. Seed propagation is also straightforward, with good germination rates.

Cultivation and Care:

Geraniums do not require highly specific soil conditions, but well-draining sandy loam is preferred. While they enjoy full sun, they should be protected from direct midday sun, especially in summer. During hot weather, place them in the shade and reduce fertilization. Use phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers, preferably organic liquid fertilizers, to promote flowering without long-term negative effects. To encourage bushy growth, regularly pinch back the growing tips and remove any yellow or oversized leaves. Prune dense or weak branches to improve air circulation. Before bringing plants indoors for winter, ensure they are placed in a sunny, well-ventilated area with temperatures above 5°C to prevent frost damage. Watering should be limited during this time. Geraniums grow quickly, so repotting once a year is recommended. Remove old roots and change pots every 3–4 months when moving them in and out of the greenhouse.

Garden Uses:

Geraniums are commonly used in containers, flower beds, and as decorative plants for festivals like May Day and National Day. The entire plant has medicinal value, and certain varieties are used for fragrance extraction.

Applications:

In outdoor gardens, geraniums are perfect for rock gardens, flower beds, and floral arrangements. Potted varieties are ideal for decorating living rooms, offices, and public spaces. They are also popular for cut flower production.

Other Common Varieties:

- Horseshoe Geranium (P. zonale): Features leaves with prominent horseshoe patterns and smaller flowers that grow in the leaf axils.

- Rose Geranium (P. graveolens): Known for its fragrant leaves that emit a pleasant scent when touched. It is small and easy to grow from seed.

- Domestic Geranium (P. domesticum): Characterized by sharp-edged leaves and large, showy flowers.

- Invasive Geranium (P. peltatum): Also known as the ivy-leaved geranium, it has drooping or climbing stems and is often used in hanging baskets.

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