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Description
Geranium Himalayense, also known as the Himalayan cranesbill, is a perennial plant native to the Himalayas. It belongs to the Geranium family and has become a popular choice among gardeners due to its attractive blue-purple flowers and easy-care nature. This plant can grow up to 30-60cm tall and has a spread of 60-90cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
The Geranium Himalayense has distinctive blue-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. These flowers have five petals and can grow up to 5cm in diameter. The plant has a mounding habit and the foliage is deeply lobed and slightly hairy with shades of green. The leaves of the plant turn reddish-brown in color during the fall season.
Care Guide
Geranium Himalayense is an easy to care for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: This plant requires moderate watering, and its soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Geranium Himalayense prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Himalayense is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by some common issues, such as:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing holes and damage to the foliage.
- Fungal diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew, which can cause discoloration and yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Geranium Himalayense is native to the Himalayan region, where it grows in rocky slopes and meadows. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Himalayense grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in containers as long as the pot has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Himalayense?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How can I prevent aphids from attacking my Geranium Himalayense?
A: You can prevent aphids from attacking your plant by spraying it with a mixture of water and dish soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids.
Q: How do I propagate Geranium Himalayense?
A: You can propagate the plant by dividing the clumps in the fall or spring season.
Related Plants
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium pratense
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Geranium Himalayense
- Royal Horticultural Society: Geranium Himalayense
- Gardening Know How: Growing Himalayan Cranesbill
