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Description
Geranium Traversii, also known as Travers’ Cranesbill or the South Island Geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to New Zealand’s South Island. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family and is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh environmental conditions.The plant is characterized by its creeping stems and small, deeply lobed leaves that form rosettes. Its flowers come in shades of pale pink, lavender, or white, and bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
| Species | Traversii |
Appearance
Geranium Traversii has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. Its leaves are deeply lobed and form rosettes close to the ground. The stems are thin and creeping, making the plant ideal for ground cover.The flowers of Geranium Traversii are small and delicate, measuring only about 2 cm in diameter. They come in shades of pale pink, lavender, or white and bloom in the summer months. The petals have a soft texture and are arranged in a symmetrical pattern.
Care Guide
Geranium Traversii is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh environmental conditions. However, it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some care tips:Water: The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it should not be overwatered as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Geranium Traversii does not require much fertilizer. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Geranium Traversii prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Geranium Traversii is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Traversii is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if overwatered. It can also be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Geranium Traversii is native to New Zealand’s South Island and is found in rocky areas, alpine meadows, and along stream banks. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in harsh environmental conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Traversii tolerate frost?A: Yes, Geranium Traversii is a hardy plant that can tolerate frost.Q: How often should I water Geranium Traversii?A: The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but it should not be overwatered.Q: Can Geranium Traversii be grown in containers?A: Yes, Geranium Traversii can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.Q: Does Geranium Traversii attract bees?A: Yes, Geranium Traversii is known to attract bees with its delicate flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geranium Traversii:- Geranium macrorrhizum- Geranium sanguineum- Geranium pratense- Geranium cinereum
References
– “Geranium Traversii.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a489.- “Geranium Traversii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/39592/Geranium-Traversii/Details. – “Geranium Traversii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 29 July 2021. http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=1601.
