Contents
Description
Geranium Palustre, commonly known as Marsh Cranesbill or Swamp Geranium, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and grows in marshes, wet meadows, and along streams and rivers. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 80 cm in width. It produces pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Palustre has hairy stems that are reddish-brown in color. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a rounded shape. The flowers, which are 2-3 cm in diameter, have five pinkish-purple petals and bloom in clusters. The plant has a clumping growth habit, and the foliage turns red in the fall.
Care Guide
Geranium Palustre prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Palustre is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Palustre is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Rust can be controlled by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Geranium Palustre is native to Europe and Asia and grows in marshes, wet meadows, and along streams and rivers. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Palustre a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, Geranium Palustre is easy to grow and maintain, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Geranium Palustre be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Palustre can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Do deer eat Geranium Palustre?
A: Deer generally do not eat Geranium Palustre, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
Q: Can Geranium Palustre be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Geranium Palustre can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium)- Geranium sanguineum (Bloody Cranesbill)- Geranium pratense (Meadow Cranesbill)- Geranium cinereum (Ballerina Cranesbill)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Geranium palustre. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c240- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Geranium palustre. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18189/i-geranium-palustre-i/details
