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Description
Geranium Californicum, commonly known as California geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. This plant is native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems of California, Baja California, and Oregon. It has delicate pink or lavender flowers that bloom from April to June and can reach a height of up to 1.5 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Californicum has soft, hairy leaves that are divided into several lobes. Its flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals. They can be pink, purple or lavender and have a white center with dark veins. The plant has a branching stem that can grow up to 1.5 feet tall.
Care Guide
Geranium Californicum is easy to grow and care for. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers sandy or loamy soil. It is drought-tolerant but needs regular watering during the growing season. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Prune the plant after flowering to promote new growth and to maintain its shape. Geranium Californicum can tolerate a wide range of hardiness zones, from 7a to 10b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Californicum is not prone to serious pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. These insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Geranium Californicum is native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems of California, Baja California, and Oregon. It can be found growing on slopes, in canyons, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Californicum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Geranium Californicum is easy to grow and care for, making it a great plant for beginners.
Q: What is the best time to plant Geranium Californicum?
A: The best time to plant Geranium Californicum is in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Geranium Californicum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Californicum can be grown in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Geranium Californicum?
A: Geranium Californicum needs regular watering during the growing season. Water it deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
Related Plants
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium nodosum
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium sanguineum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/geranium_californicum.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/geranium-californicum
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Geranium+californicum
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GECA3
