Geranium Pulchrum

Description

Geranium Pulchrum, commonly known as the Beautiful Geranium, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geranium family. This plant is native to the Balkan region and can reach a height of 30 to 50 cm. It produces small, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from June to September. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a soft, velvety texture. Geranium Pulchrum is a popular ornamental plant that is widely used in gardens and landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Beautiful Geranium is a low-growing plant that can spread up to 60 cm. It has deep green, lobed leaves that are velvety to the touch. The flowers are small, pinkish-purple, and have five petals. They bloom in clusters from June to September. The plant produces fruits that are shaped like a beak and have a length of about 2 cm. The fruit has a pointed end and splits into five sections when it dries.

Care Guide

Geranium Pulchrum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Water the plant deeply once a week. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as profusely.
• Hardiness Zones: Geranium Pulchrum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Geranium Pulchrum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:

• Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug pellets or beer traps to control them.
• Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the leaves and flowers to rot. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide to control the disease.

Habitat

Geranium Pulchrum is native to the Balkan region and can be found in meadows, rocky slopes, and woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q1: What is the height of Geranium Pulchrum?
A1: Geranium Pulchrum can reach a height of 30 to 50 cm.

Q2: When does Geranium Pulchrum bloom?
A2: Geranium Pulchrum blooms from June to September.

Q3: What is the preferred soil pH for Geranium Pulchrum?
A3: Geranium Pulchrum prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Q4: What are the common pests and diseases of Geranium Pulchrum?
A4: Geranium Pulchrum may be susceptible to slugs and snails, and Botrytis blight.

Related Plants

• Geranium macrorrhizum
• Geranium sanguineum
• Geranium pratense
• Geranium endressii

References

• “Geranium Pulchrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280292
• “Geranium Pulchrum.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/115911/
• “Geranium Pulchrum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/138934/Geranium-pulchrum/Details