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Description
Geranium Maculatum, commonly known as Wild Geranium or Spotted Geranium, is a herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. It is a member of the Geraniaceae family and is widely cultivated for its attractive flowers and foliage. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of 1-2 feet. It blooms in late spring to early summer with pink to lavender flowers that have five petals and a distinctive veiny appearance. After flowering, the plant produces a fruit that resembles a beak-like capsule.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Maculatum has a clump-forming growth habit with deeply lobed, palmate leaves that are green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches wide and are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem. The flowers are typically 1-2 inches wide and are held above the foliage on long, slender stems. They have a sweet, delicate fragrance and attract bees and butterflies to the garden. The fruit that follows the flowers is a long, slender capsule that contains small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
Geranium Maculatum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this native wildflower:
Water: Geranium Maculatum prefers consistently moist soil, but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Water deeply once a week during dry spells, and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
Fertilization: Wild Geranium does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but will not thrive in heavy clay or compacted soils.
Sunlight: Geranium Maculatum can tolerate partial shade, but will produce more flowers in full sun. Aim to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Maculatum is relatively pest and disease resistant, but may occasionally be affected by the following issues:
Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the foliage and flowers of Geranium Maculatum. Use a non-toxic slug and snail bait to control them.
Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow-orange spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Geranium Maculatum is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and prairies. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Maculatum easy to grow?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Q: How often should I water my Geranium Maculatum?
A: Water deeply once a week during dry spells, and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
Q: What is the best time to plant Geranium Maculatum?
A: Plant in fall or early spring when the soil is cool and moist.
Q: How can I propagate Geranium Maculatum?
A: Divide the plant in spring or fall, or take stem cuttings in summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geranium Maculatum:
- Geranium sanguineum (Bloody Cranesbill)
- Geranium pratense (Meadow Cranesbill)
- Geranium phaeum (Dusky Cranesbill)
- Geranium x cantabrigiense (Cambridge Cranesbill)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Geranium Maculatum
- North Carolina State University: Geranium Maculatum
- University of Connecticut Plant Database: Geranium Maculatum
