Geranium Wallichianum

Description:

Geranium Wallichianum, also known as Wallich’s Cranesbill, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes. The plant produces beautiful violet-blue flowers with a white center that bloom in the summer and fall. The foliage is deeply divided and has a dark green color that turns red in the fall.

Taxonomic Information:

Appearance:

Geranium Wallichianum can grow up to 90 cm in height and 60 cm in width. The plant has a clumping habit and produces multiple stems that are covered with fine hairs. The flowers are about 3 cm in diameter and have five petals with a white center. The foliage is deeply divided into five to seven lobes with a dark green color that turns red in the fall. The plant is a great addition to any garden or landscape, and it attracts bees and butterflies.

Care Guide:

Geranium Wallichianum is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this beautiful plant:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant Geranium Wallichianum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as much.
• Hardiness Zones: Geranium Wallichianum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases:

Geranium Wallichianum is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by some pests and diseases, including:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
• Slugs & Snails: These pests can eat the foliage and flowers of the plant, leaving holes and slime trails.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced vigor.

To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Remove any affected leaves or flowers and use organic pest control methods if necessary.

Habitat:

Geranium Wallichianum is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes. It is a popular garden plant and can be grown in various climates and soil types.

Question and Answer:

Q: Can Geranium Wallichianum be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Geranium Wallichianum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water the plant regularly.

Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Wallichianum?

A: You should fertilize Geranium Wallichianum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.

Q: Can Geranium Wallichianum tolerate drought?

A: Geranium Wallichianum prefers moist soil and may not tolerate drought well. Make sure to water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.

Q: How do I propagate Geranium Wallichianum?

A: Geranium Wallichianum can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant, separate the root ball into sections, and replant in well-draining soil.

Related Plants:

• Geranium Maculatum
• Geranium Rozanne
• Geranium Sanguineum
• Geranium Cinereum

References:

• “Geranium Wallichianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 8 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274794.
• “Geranium Wallichianum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 8 June 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18250/geranium-wallichianum/details.
• “Geranium Wallichianum.” The Spruce. Accessed 8 June 2021. www.thespruce.com/geranium-wallichianum-growing-conditions-4778692.