GERANIUM INTERSPECIFIC
Behind the Breeding
As a breeder I have fun and aspire to develop varieties that seem inconceivable. Mantra is the result of a challenge to myself for selecting the most vigorous, dark leaf and heat tolerant standard geranium. The dark leaf trait I like as a contrasting backdrop to the flower color. However, it seemed to be genetically connected to a compact plant. Heat tolerance for a geranium seems an obvious trait, but tolerance to extreme heat and solar radiation seemed to be connected to a spreading plant habit. Now within the new world of interspecific breeding, I could combine these traits from any background without reserve. So I thought “what the heck, let’s go for it” and see what is possible. These varying ways of genetic sourcing resulted in a group of vigorous, dark leaf, heat tolerant, “standard type” geraniums: “Mantra”. I hope they will be as rewarding for you as they have been for me.
Mantra ™ Bright Red
GER AN I UM I NTERSPEC I F I C Pe l a r gon i um i n t e r s pe c i f i c Mantra ™
Making a statement with big blooms, vigor, and dark green foliage. • The first and only geranium series that combines the best of interspecific breeding with dark green foliage, excellent branching, and a vigorous upright growth habit. • Mantra’s dark green leaves, brilliant flowers, and habit is similar to the Mojo ™ series, but with about 40% more vigor. • Large flowers and high vigor like Rocky Mountain ™ zonal geraniums—ideal for 2.5 qt. and larger pots.
Ronald Snijder, Ph.D. ____ CO-LEAD BREEDING Andijk, The Netherlands
EXPOSURE Part Sun–Full Sun
DIMENSIONS 16–20” W x 16–20” H
HABIT Mounding, Upright
FORMS URC, CC, AutoStix ®
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” The most vigorous, dark leaf and heat tolerant standard geranium.
Mantra ™ Bright Red 70086828
Mantra ™ Magenta 70080212
Mantra ™ Pink 70080221
V E G E T A T I V E | A N N U A L S
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