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Description
Geranium Homeanum, also known as the Balkan Cranesbill, is a perennial plant species from the Geraniaceae family. It is native to southeastern Europe and the Middle East, where it grows in rocky areas, meadows, and forests. The plant features deeply lobed, palmate leaves and produces delicate, five-petaled pink flowers from late spring to early summer. Geranium Homeanum is commonly used in rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Homeanum grows up to 20-30 cm tall and 30-60 cm wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed, palmate, and up to 10 cm wide. The plant produces delicate, five-petaled pink flowers that are approximately 2 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Geranium Homeanum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this species:
Water: Geranium Homeanum prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Geranium Homeanum prefers loamy, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: Geranium Homeanum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Geranium Homeanum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Homeanum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally suffer from the following issues:
Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use organic slug baits or handpick them to control the infestation.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the leaves of Geranium Homeanum in damp and humid conditions. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Geranium Homeanum is native to southeastern Europe and the Middle East, where it grows in rocky areas, meadows, and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can also adapt to various soil types and is drought-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Homeanum a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Geranium Homeanum is an excellent choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and delicate flowers.
Q: How often should I water Geranium Homeanum?
A: Water Geranium Homeanum deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can I propagate Geranium Homeanum from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate Geranium Homeanum from stem cuttings. Take a 5-7 cm cutting from the tip of the stem and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until the cutting develops roots.
Q: How do I prevent powdery mildew on Geranium Homeanum?
A: Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity around the plant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geranium Homeanum:
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium x magnificum
- Geranium pratense
References
– “Geranium Homeanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282374- “Geranium Homeanum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed on August 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13915/Geranium-homeanum/Details
