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Description
Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey, also known as the Citronella Geranium, is a fragrant and beautiful plant that belongs to the Pelargonium family. It is native to South Africa, but it is also widely grown in other parts of the world because of its lovely appearance and strong citrus scent. The plant features a shrub-like growth habit and produces flowers that range in color from pink to white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has a dense growth habit and produces leaves that are bright green and slightly serrated. The leaves are also slightly velvety to the touch. The flowers of the plant are produced in clusters and are typically pink or white in color. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall and produces a strong citrus scent that repels insects.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and happy:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter months.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Sunlight: Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between watering.
Habitat
Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I use the leaves of Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey to make insect repellent?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant contain citronella oil, which can be used as a natural insect repellent.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter months.
Q: Is Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey poisonous to pets?
A: The plant is non-toxic to pets.
Q: Can Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey survive cold winters?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 and can tolerate some cold, but it may not survive hard freezes.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey:
- Pelargonium graveolens (Rose-Scented Geranium)
- Pelargonium odoratissimum (Apple-Scented Geranium)
- Pelargonium crispum (Lemon-Scented Geranium)
References
- “Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey.” The Spruce, 2021, www.thespruce.com/pelargonium-citronellum-mabel-grey-5071179.
- “Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=293360.
- “Pelargonium Citronellum Mabel Grey.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pelargonium-citronellum-mabel-grey-citronella-geranium.
