Geranium Phaeum

Description

Geranium Phaeum, also known as Dusky Cranesbill or Mourning Widow, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the family Geraniaceae and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its hardiness and attractive blooms. This herbaceous perennial grows up to 60 cm tall and has deeply lobed, dark green leaves. The flowers bloom from spring to early summer and are characterized by their dark purple color and distinct veining. Geranium Phaeum is a great addition to any garden or landscape, and requires minimal care to thrive.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Geranium Phaeum is a clump-forming perennial with a bushy habit. The leaves are deeply lobed and dark green in color, measuring up to 15 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom on tall stems from late spring to early summer, and are characterized by their deep purple color and distinctive veining. Each flower measures around 2.5 cm in diameter and has five petals. The plant produces small, beaked seed pods that contain several seeds. Geranium Phaeum is a hardy plant that can survive harsh winter conditions, and is a great choice for gardeners looking for a reliable and low-maintenance perennial.

Care Guide

Geranium Phaeum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care to thrive. Here are some tips for keeping your Geranium Phaeum healthy:

Water

Geranium Phaeum prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought or hot weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

Fertilization

Geranium Phaeum does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and blooming.

Soil

Geranium Phaeum grows best in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH. Avoid planting Geranium Phaeum in heavy or poorly drained soil.

Sunlight

Geranium Phaeum prefers partial to full shade, but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Plant the Geranium Phaeum in a location that receives at least four hours of sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Geranium Phaeum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. It can tolerate cold temperatures and is a great choice for gardeners living in cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Geranium Phaeum is a relatively pest-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common problems to watch out for:

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves of Geranium Phaeum, causing damage to the plant. Use slug and snail bait or traps to control these pests.

Mildew

Mildew can develop on the leaves of Geranium Phaeum during periods of high humidity. To prevent mildew, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Root Rot

Overwatering or planting in poorly drained soil can lead to root rot in Geranium Phaeum. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is planted in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Geranium Phaeum is native to Europe and Asia, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and hedgerows. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Geranium Phaeum is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold temperatures and is a great choice for gardeners living in cooler climates.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Geranium Phaeum?

A: Geranium Phaeum prefers moist soil, but does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought or hot weather, but avoid overwatering.

Q: Can Geranium Phaeum tolerate full sun?

A: Geranium Phaeum prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

Q: How can I prevent mildew on my Geranium Phaeum?

A: To prevent mildew, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Geranium Phaeum?

A: Geranium Phaeum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Related Plants

• Geranium sanguineum
• Geranium maculatum
• Geranium pratense
• Geranium x cantabrigiense

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. “Geranium Phaeum.” Accessed August 5, 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b806>
• RHS. “Geranium Phaeum.” Accessed August 5, 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26633/Geranium-phaeum/Details>
• Gardenia. “Geranium Phaeum (Dusky Cranesbill).” Accessed August 5, 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/geranium-phaeum-dusky-cranesbill>