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Description
Geranium Clarkei, also known as Clarke’s Hardy Cranesbill, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to China and was named after Charles Baron Clarke, a British botanist who collected the first specimen. The plant typically grows up to 45cm in height and spreads up to 60cm in width. It has deeply lobed leaves and produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
| Species | G. Clarkei |
Appearance
Geranium Clarkei produces deeply lobed leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 15cm in diameter. The leaves turn reddish-brown in the fall. The plant produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have five petals and a diameter of approximately 2.5cm. The plant typically grows up to 45cm in height and spreads up to 60cm in width.
Care Guide
Water
Geranium Clarkei prefers moist soil but does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the process every four weeks until mid-summer.
Soil
Geranium Clarkei prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
Sunlight
Geranium Clarkei prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Geranium Clarkei is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Clarkei is susceptible to fungal diseases such as gray mold and powdery mildew. It can also be attacked by spider mites and aphids. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Geranium Clarkei is native to China and grows in rocky areas and along forest edges. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I water Geranium Clarkei?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Geranium Clarkei?
A: Geranium Clarkei prefers well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly acidic.
Q: How do I prevent fungal diseases in Geranium Clarkei?
A: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases in Geranium Clarkei.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Geranium Clarkei?
A: Geranium Clarkei is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Geranium Macrorrhizum
- Geranium Pratense
- Geranium Sanguineum
- Geranium Rozanne
References
- “Geranium Clarkei”. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a181
- “Clarke’s Hardy Cranesbill”. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/125212/Geranium-clarkei/Details
- “Geranium Clarkei”. The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/geranium-clarkei-plant-profile-4773487
