Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow excess water to drain away freely.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
Also known as Pelargonija · Scarlet Pelargonium · Scented Storksbill
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Scarlet Geranium (Pelargonium inquinans) is a South African native shrub, prized for its vibrant scarlet flowers and vigorous growth habit. It thrives in full sun.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures between 15-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 1/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Low
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow excess water to drain away freely.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers. Pinch back young stems to promote branching. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and stems promptly.
Pruning in early spring can revitalize the plant.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Select healthy shoots, cut 7-10 cm lengths, and remove lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining medium.
Keep warm and humid.
Repot annually or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one with drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based mixture with added perlite. Water after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Scarlet Geranium (Pelargonium inquinans)
Where Scarlet Geranium (Pelargonium inquinans) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
| Species | Pelargonium inquinans |
Similar in genus Pelargonium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
