Pelargonium grandiflorum aka Large Flower Pelargonium
Taxonomy
Pelargonium grandiflorum, also known as regal pelargonium, is a species of flowering plant in the family Geraniaceae. Native to the southwestern Cape Provinces of South Africa, this bushy and evergreen perennial has rounded mid-green leaves with deep serrations. From spring to autumn, it produces trumpet-shaped purple-pink flowers. It is believed to be a parent of the cultivated Pelargonium × domesticum, along with Pelargonium cucullatum. This erect and straggling herbaceous shrub can reach a height of 0.75 m. The stem is glaucous, soft, smooth, and shiny. One popular variety is Bella Donna, which was bred by a Dutch plant breeder. Pelargonium is a genus that encompasses approximately 200 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs. These plants are commonly known as geraniums, pelargoniums, or storksbills. It is worth noting that Geranium is both the botanical name and common name of a separate genus of related plants. Both Pelargonium and Geranium belong to the family Geraniaceae.
Common names
Large Flower Pelargonium, Regal GeraniumHow to care for Large Flower Pelargonium
Difficulty
Large Flower Pelargonium is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Large Flower Pelargonium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Large Flower Pelargonium loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Large Flower Pelargonium requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Large Flower Pelargonium will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Humidity
The Large Flower Pelargonium is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Large Flower Pelargonium should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Large Flower Pelargonium’s native range is Tropical and Subtropical regions worldwide.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Pelargonium Genus
Pelargonium capitatum Rose Scented Pelagonium
Pelargonium crispum Crisped Leaf Pelargonium
Pelargonium candicans Pelargonium Candicans
Pelargonium radens Mutifid Leaf Pelargonium
Pelargonium incrassatum Namaqualand Beauty
Pelargonium citronellum Lemon Scent Pelargonium
Pelargonium australe Pelargonium Australe
Pelargonium caucalifolium Pelargonium Caucalifolium
Pelargonium alchemilloides Pelargonium Alchemilloides
