Curly-leaved Pelargonium
pelargonium crispum
Also known as: ["Curly-leaved Geranium","Parlor Ivy"]
Overview
A small, aromatic, evergreen subshrub with finely divided, curled leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers.
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 crispum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near a south-facing window or outdoor container in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, but occasional misting can help in very dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if plant becomes overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water thoroughly but infrequently.
Soil
well-draining, slightly sandy potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use pots with drainage holes, avoid heavy garden soil, top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Protect from drafts, maintain consistent room temperature, avoid placing near heating/cooling vents.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, perlite, peat moss, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy or dead growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged growth, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
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, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, fertilize during active growth, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPelargonium crispum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities may vary.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPelargonium crispum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities may vary.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPelargonium crispum, commonly known as lemon-scented geranium, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications and aromatherapy for its pleasant lemon scent and flavor. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingestion or contact with the plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pelargonium crispum safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How often should I water Pelargonium crispum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Pelargonium crispum require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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