Crimson Cranesbill

pelargonium inquinans

Also known as: ["Crimson Geranium","Stained Cranesbill"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Pelargonium Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Geraniaceae, native to South Africa, known for its vibrant crimson flowers and aromatic foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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
  • Soil Type: Well-draining mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • 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
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains in summer.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips (overwatering); stunted growth (underwatering or poor soil); leggy stems (insufficient light).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

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

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; reduce watering in cooler months.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone (optional).
  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 (65–75°F), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap

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 just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushiness; shape the plant for aesthetic appeal; improve air circulation to reduce disease risk.

Tools

Sharp, clean pruning shears, gloves

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; cut above leaf nodes; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes

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; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.

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 foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

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

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage recovery.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage in the morning to cool the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; flush periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); cease in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Pelargonium inquinans can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, often resulting in reduced photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Pelargonium inquinans may be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Pelargonium inquinans are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Pelargonium inquinans due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Pelargonium inquinans may experience mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant's compounds can also cause skin irritation upon contact.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Pelargonium inquinans by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. Skin contact may also cause localized irritation.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant and seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Pelargonium inquinans contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The plant's essential oils may also lead to 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 inquinans toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Pelargonium inquinans?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Pelargonium inquinans attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

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