Contents
Description
Pelargonium Catford Belle is a stunning and versatile plant that belongs to the Pelargonium genus, which includes over 200 species of flowering plants. It is a hybrid variety that was created by crossing Pelargonium zonale and Pelargonium inquinans. It is commonly known as “storksbill” or “geranium”. This plant is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including Europe and the United States.Pelargonium Catford Belle is a bushy and compact plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide. It has beautiful and showy flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. The leaves are usually green or variegated, and have a slightly fuzzy texture. This plant is a popular choice for borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Catford Belle is a beautiful and eye-catching plant that can add color and texture to any garden or indoor space. It has a bushy and compact growth habit, with thick stems and slightly fuzzy leaves. The flowers are the main attraction of this plant, and they come in various shades of pink, red, and white. The flowers are typically five-petaled and have a star-like shape. They bloom from spring to fall, and can attract bees and butterflies to your garden.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Catford Belle is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for it:- Water: Pelargonium Catford Belle prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Feed Pelargonium Catford Belle with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring to fall). Reduce fertilization during winter, when the plant is dormant.- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite. Pelargonium Catford Belle can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.- Sunlight: Pelargonium Catford Belle prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. If you live in a colder zone, you can grow it as an annual or bring it indoors during winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Catford Belle is generally a healthy and disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch for:- Spider mites: These tiny insects can suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry up. You can control spider mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Aphids: These small insects can cluster on the leaves and stems, causing them to distort and curl. You can control aphids with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves to turn brown and mushy. It thrives in humid and damp conditions. You can control botrytis blight by improving air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Pelargonium Catford Belle is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils in dry and sunny areas. It is adapted to hot and dry conditions, and can tolerate some drought. This plant is widely cultivated in various parts of the world, and can thrive in different climates and soil types. It is often used as a bedding plant, container plant, or hanging basket.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pelargonium Catford Belle a perennial or an annual plant?A: Pelargonium Catford Belle is a perennial plant in USDA zones 9 to 11, but can be grown as an annual in colder zones.Q: How often should I water Pelargonium Catford Belle?A: Water Pelargonium Catford Belle when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Q: Can Pelargonium Catford Belle grow in shade?A: Pelargonium Catford Belle prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.Q: How do I propagate Pelargonium Catford Belle?A: You can propagate Pelargonium Catford Belle by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist potting mix. Keep them in a warm and bright location until they root and start to grow.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pelargonium Catford Belle:- Pelargonium zonale (common name: “common geranium”)- Pelargonium inquinans (common name: “storksbill”)- Pelargonium peltatum (common name: “ivy-leaved geranium”)- Pelargonium grandiflorum (common name: “large-flowered geranium”)- Pelargonium graveolens (common name: “rose-scented geranium”)
References
– “Pelargonium.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 20 May 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelargonium.- “Pelargonium ‘Catford Belle’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250324&isprofile=0&.- “Geranium Care: How to Grow and Care for Geraniums.” Gardening Know How, 17 May 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/geranium/geranium-care.htm.
