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Description
Geranium Oreganum, commonly known as Oregon Geranium or Wild Geranium, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to the western region of North America and can grow up to 60 cm in height. The plant produces large, showy, and pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The leaves of Geranium Oreganum are deeply divided and lobed, giving them a lacy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Oreganum has a bushy and upright growth habit. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 45 cm in width. The leaves of Geranium Oreganum are palmate and deeply divided into five to seven lobes. The lobes are further divided into smaller lobes, which give the leaves a lacy texture. The flowers of Geranium Oreganum are large, showy, and pink in color. They bloom from late spring to early summer and can reach up to 5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Geranium Oreganum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of Geranium Oreganum:
Water: Geranium Oreganum prefers well-draining soil that is kept slightly moist. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize Geranium Oreganum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Soil: Geranium Oreganum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Sunlight: Geranium Oreganum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Hardiness Zones: Geranium Oreganum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Oreganum is generally pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant:
Pests: Aphids and spider mites can infest Geranium Oreganum. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Diseases: Powdery mildew and gray mold can affect Geranium Oreganum. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Geranium Oreganum is native to the western region of North America, where it grows in meadows, woodlands, and forests. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Geranium Oreganum can tolerate some shade but prefers full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Oreganum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Oreganum can grow in containers, provided that the container has good drainage and the soil is kept slightly moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Oreganum?
A: Fertilize Geranium Oreganum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Geranium Oreganum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Geranium Oreganum attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Is Geranium Oreganum toxic to pets?
A: No, Geranium Oreganum is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium psilostemon
- Geranium pratense
References
- “Geranium oreganum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276945&isprofile=0&basic=geranium%20oreganum>
- “Geranium oreganum.” Plant Lust. Accessed 16 August 2021. <https://www.plantlust.com/plants/geranium-oreganum/>
- “Geranium oreganum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 16 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/245102/geranium-oreganum/details>
