Palmate Geranium

geranium palmatum

Also known as: ["Palmate Cranesbill"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Geranium Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Geraniaceae, native to the Canary Islands.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts 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: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in late winter/early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

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

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter

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

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.

Protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations.

Fertilizing

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

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

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

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips, cut above leaf nodes, remove dead or crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Sharp pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.

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

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

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 soil freshness.

Checklist

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

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without splashing foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once 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 proper aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in extreme heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost below 32°F (0°C).

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; cover with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or bud drop in excessive heat; may cease flowering.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season; flush soil periodically.

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 Geranium palmatum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall vigor.

Wilting in Geranium palmatum can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, affecting the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Geranium palmatum are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Geranium palmatum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Geranium palmatum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort, particularly in sensitive individuals.

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

if eaten

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

In dogs, ingestion of Geranium palmatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. While not typically life-threatening, the plant can cause discomfort and should be kept out of reach of pets.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from pets and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Geranium palmatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable, particularly if ingested in large quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
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 Geranium palmatum toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Where is Geranium palmatum native to?

A: It is native to the Canary Islands.

Q: What are the common problems with Geranium palmatum?

A: Common problems include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.

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