Geranium Carolinianum

Description

Geranium Carolinianum, commonly known as Carolina Geranium or Wild Geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Geraniaceae. This plant is native to eastern North America and can be found in meadows, woodland areas, and along roadsides. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has deeply cut leaves with a lobed shape. Its flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are light pink to lavender in color. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Geranium Carolinianum has deeply cut leaves with a lobed shape that are light green in color. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has stems that are covered in fine hairs. Its flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are light pink to lavender in color. Each flower has five petals and is about 1 inch in diameter. The plant produces small, round, and hairy fruits that are about 0.5 inches in diameter.

Care Guide

Geranium Carolinianum is a low maintenance plant and requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:

• Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Geranium Carolinianum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, some pests and diseases that may affect the plant include:

• Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
• Spider mites: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s leaves, causing yellowing and wilting.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves and stems, leading to reduced growth and yellowing of leaves.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.

Habitat

Geranium Carolinianum is native to eastern North America and can be found in meadows, woodland areas, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Geranium Carolinianum a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Geranium Carolinianum has been used for centuries to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and wounds.

Q: How often do I need to water my Geranium Carolinianum plant?
A: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.

Q: Can Geranium Carolinianum tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Geranium Carolinianum can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases that can affect Geranium Carolinianum?
A: Some common pests and diseases that can affect Geranium Carolinianum include aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot.

Related Plants

• Geranium maculatum
• Geranium sanguineum
• Geranium pratense
• Geranium cinereum

References

• “Geranium carolinianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=c831 (accessed December 15, 2021).
• “Geranium carolinianum.” Plant Database. Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/770/ (accessed December 15, 2021).
• “Geranium carolinianum.” Wildflowers of the United States. http://uswildflowers.com/detail.php?SName=Geranium%20carolinianum (accessed December 15, 2021).