Slender Geranium

geranium gracile

Also known as: ["Slender Cranesbill"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Geranium Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing perennial herb with delicate, deeply lobed leaves and pale pink flowers, native to rocky slopes and woodlands.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Geranium
Botanical Name: Geranium gracile

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water at the base to keep foliage dry.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy in winter.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

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

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips, cut above leaf nodes, and remove dead or leggy stems.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

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

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new 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 until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the root zone without splashing leaves.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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

Cold Stress

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

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.

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 active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Geranium gracile may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Geranium gracile can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake and plant stability.

Leaf spots on Geranium gracile may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Geranium gracile is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Geranium gracile. The plant's compounds can irritate the feline digestive tract, causing discomfort and mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Geranium gracile can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant's compounds may cause irritation to the dog's digestive system, resulting in mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Geranium gracile contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset when ingested. The plant's essential oils and other secondary metabolites may irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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: Does Geranium gracile attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its pale pink flowers.

Q: Is Geranium gracile toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How much sunlight does Geranium gracile need?

A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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