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Description
Geranium Incanum, commonly known as Baluchistan cranesbill, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Iran and Afghanistan. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family, which comprises over 700 species of flowering plants. The plant has a spreading habit and grows up to 60 cm in height. It produces small, pink to 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 |
Appearance
The leaves of Geranium Incanum are deeply divided into five to seven lobes and have a slightly hairy texture. They are green in color and can grow up to 12 cm wide. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals and ten stamens. They bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by small, beaked fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Geranium Incanum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Incanum is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Incanum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use copper tape or slug pellets to control them.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Geranium Incanum is native to Iran and Afghanistan. It grows in rocky and mountainous areas at elevations of up to 3000 meters. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Incanum a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Geranium Incanum is drought-tolerant once established. However, it prefers regular watering during the growing season.
Q: Can Geranium Incanum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Incanum can grow in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Incanum?
A: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Geranium Incanum?
A: Geranium Incanum can be propagated by division in spring or autumn. Dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Geranium psilostemon
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium pratense
References
- “Geranium Incanum.” Plant Lust. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://plantlust.com/plants/geranium-incanum/.
- “Geranium Incanum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4894/Geranium-incanum/Details.
- “Geranium Incanum.” The Spruce. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/baluchistan-cranesbill-geranium-incanum-4684785.
