Contents
Description
Geranium Molle, commonly known as Dove’s Foot Geranium, is a delicate perennial herb that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia but has also been introduced in other parts of the world. The plant has small, pinkish-purple flowers with five petals that bloom from May to September. The leaves of Geranium Molle are deeply lobed and resemble a dove’s foot, hence its common name. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and is often used in aromatherapy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Molle is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of 30-60cm. It has a spreading growth habit and forms a mat-like carpet of green foliage. The leaves of Geranium Molle are deeply lobed and resemble a dove’s foot, with five or seven lobes. The foliage is soft and hairy to the touch. The flowers of Geranium Molle are pinkish-purple in color and have five petals. They bloom from May to September and are held above the foliage on thin, wiry stems. The plant has a pleasant fragrance that is often used in perfumes and aromatherapy.
Care Guide
Geranium Molle is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow it successfully:
Water: Geranium Molle prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not soaking wet.
Fertilization: Geranium Molle does not require a lot of fertilizer. You can fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: Geranium Molle prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: Geranium Molle prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Hardiness Zones: Geranium Molle is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Molle is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch for:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the underside of leaves. They suck sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and flowers of Geranium Molle. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Geranium Molle is native to Europe and Asia but has also been introduced in other parts of the world, including North America. It can be found growing in meadows, pastures, waste places, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Molle toxic to pets?
A: Geranium Molle is not toxic to pets or humans.
Q: Can Geranium Molle be grown indoors?
A: Geranium Molle can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Molle?
A: You can fertilize Geranium Molle once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: Can Geranium Molle tolerate drought?
A: Geranium Molle prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geranium Molle:
- Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium)
- Geranium sanguineum (Bloody Cranesbill)
- Geranium pratense (Meadow Cranesbill)
- Geranium psilostemon (Armenian Cranesbill)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Geranium molle
- RHS: Geranium molle
- Gardening Know How: Dove’s Foot Geranium Care – How To Grow Dove’s Foot Geranium Plants
- Cornell University: Geranium Diseases & Insect Pests
