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Description
Pelargonium Dasyphyllum, also known as Silver-leaved Geranium or Silver-leaf Pelargonium, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its ornamental foliage and delicate white flowers. The plant has a compact and trailing growth habit and is perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, and garden borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Dasyphyllum has small, rounded, silver-grey leaves that are deeply divided into three lobes. The leaves are hairy and velvety to the touch and have a distinct aroma when crushed. The plant produces delicate, white or pale pink flowers that bloom in clusters from late spring to summer. The flowers have five petals and are about 1 cm in diameter. The plant reaches a height of about 20 cm and spreads up to 30 cm.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Dasyphyllum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to care for your Silver-leaved Geranium:
Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. Use a potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Pelargonium Dasyphyllum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. In colder regions, grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Dasyphyllum is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
Whiteflies: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves.
Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant’s leaves, causing distortion and curling.
Botrytis: This fungal disease causes gray mold on the plant’s leaves and flowers.
Pythium: This fungal disease causes root rot and can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Pelargonium Dasyphyllum is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils in the fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types. The plant is adapted to hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pelargonium Dasyphyllum toxic to pets?
A: The plant is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Q: Can Pelargonium Dasyphyllum survive in full sun?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and may get scorched in full sun.
Q: Can Pelargonium Dasyphyllum survive frost?
A: The plant is not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in colder regions.
Q: Can Pelargonium Dasyphyllum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pelargonium Dasyphyllum:
- Pelargonium graveolens (Rose-scented Geranium)
- Pelargonium peltatum (Ivy-leaved Geranium)
- Pelargonium zonale (Common Geranium)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/geranium/silver-leaf-geranium-care.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/pelargonium-dasyphyllum-silver-leaf-geranium
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/silver-leaf-geraniums-pelargonium-dasyphyllum/
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/pelargonium-dasyphyllum-silver-leaf-geranium/
