Clove-Scented Geranium

pelargonium grandiflorum

Also known as: ["Clove Geranium","Clove-Scented Pelargonium"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Pelargonium Category: Flowers

Overview

A fragrant, ornamental plant with clove-scented leaves and attractive flowers, often used in potpourri and culinary applications.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Pelargonium
Botanical Name: Pelargonium grandiflorum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor container in sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; heavy pruning after flowering or in late winter.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and rejuvenation needs.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on season.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering), wilting (underwatering), or stunted growth (poor soil quality).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; move outdoors in spring/summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.

Soil

well-draining, loamy potting mix with added perlite

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme cold or heat.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry environments; shield from intense heat.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and fall

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust based on growth rate.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and more blooms.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and bloom.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; avoid wetting foliage.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil dries between waterings.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Pelargonium grandiflorum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Pelargonium grandiflorum can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Pelargonium grandiflorum are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can lead to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Pelargonium grandiflorum due to excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Pelargonium grandiflorum may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The plant's essential oils can also cause skin irritation in cats.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure plants are inaccessible to cats and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Pelargonium grandiflorum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's essential oils may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of pets and monitor for any signs of ingestion.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Pelargonium grandiflorum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's essential oils may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and handle with care, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pelargonium grandiflorum safe for pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so keep it out of reach.

Q: How often should I water this plant?

A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.

Q: Can I use the leaves for cooking?

A: Yes, the clove-scented leaves can be used in culinary dishes for flavoring.

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers"]
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