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Description
Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo is a hardy herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. The plant is native to the Balkans and was first introduced to the UK in the early 1980s. Its scientific name is derived from the Latin word “geranion,” which means crane, and “cantabrigiense,” which refers to the plant’s place of discovery, Cambridge.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
The Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo plant grows to a height of 20 to 30 cm and spreads up to 30 to 45 cm. Its leaves are rounded and deeply lobed, with a bright green color that turns bronze in autumn. The plant produces pinkish-white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have five petals and are approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. The plant’s foliage emits a pleasant fragrance when crushed.
Care Guide
Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo is easy to care for and is ideal for novice gardeners. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during its growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo is pest and disease-resistant, but it might suffer from mildew or rust if planted in a damp location. Additionally, slugs and snails may feed on the plant’s leaves. To prevent disease, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering. To control pests, handpick or use slug pellets.
Habitat
Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo is native to the Balkans and grows in rocky or stony soils in open woodlands or meadows. The plant thrives in cool, moist conditions and can tolerate frost.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo?
A: Water the plant regularly during its growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the plant’s hardiness zone?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo?
A: The plant is pest and disease-resistant, but it might suffer from mildew or rust if planted in a damp location. Additionally, slugs and snails may feed on the plant’s leaves.
Q: What is the ideal soil for Geranium Cantabrigiense Biokovo?
A: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Related Plants
- Geranium Rozanne
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium pratense
References
- The Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Geranium Cantabrigiense 'Biokovo'. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18806/Geranium-cantabrigiense-Biokovo/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Geranium Cantabrigiense. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c436
- Gardenia. (2021). Geranium Cantabrigiense 'Biokovo'. Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/geranium-cantabrigiense-biokovo<
