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Description
Pelargonium Peltatum, commonly known as ivy-leaved pelargonium, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to South Africa, but it is widely cultivated in gardens and as a houseplant around the world. It is a trailing or climbing plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters long. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Peltatum has glossy, dark green leaves that are ivy-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The leaves are 3-5 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The flowers are single or double and have five petals. The petals are often veined in a contrasting color, and they have a slightly ruffled edge. The flowers bloom from spring to fall, and they are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Peltatum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:- Water: Water the plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.- Sunlight: Pelargonium Peltatum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as well.- Hardiness Zones: Pelargonium Peltatum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Peltatum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to the following:- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation to prevent it.
Habitat
Pelargonium Peltatum is native to the coastal regions of South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and on cliffs. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate salty air and wind.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pelargonium Peltatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Peltatum is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Pelargonium Peltatum be grown as a houseplant?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Peltatum can be grown as a houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
Q: How often should Pelargonium Peltatum be pruned?
A: Pelargonium Peltatum benefits from regular pruning to promote bushy growth and prevent legginess. Prune it back by one-third in the spring and again in the fall.
Q: How long do the flowers of Pelargonium Peltatum last?
A: The flowers of Pelargonium Peltatum can last for several weeks, but they may drop off sooner if the plant is stressed or not receiving enough water or nutrients.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Pelargonium genus:- Pelargonium Graveolens (rose-scented geranium)- Pelargonium Zonale (common geranium)- Pelargonium Citronellum (lemon-scented geranium)- Pelargonium Capitatum (lemon-scented geranium)
References
– “Ivy-leafed Pelargoniums.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19677/pelargonium-peltatum/details.- “Pelargonium Peltatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277836&isprofile=0&.- “Ivy Geraniums: Growing and Care.” The Spruce, 2021, https://www.thespruce.com/growing-ivy-geraniums-1402638.
