Contents
Description
Geranium Phaeum Album, also known as White Mourning Widow, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Geranium family. This elegant plant is native to Europe and western Asia and is known for its charming white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. Its delicate beauty and easy maintenance make it a popular choice for gardeners worldwide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Phaeum Album has a clumping habit and can grow up to 90cm in height and spread up to 60cm. Its leaves are deeply lobed and have a dark green color. The plant produces delicate white flowers with purple veining that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have a diameter of 2.5cm and are held above the foliage on long stalks.
Care Guide
Geranium Phaeum Album is an easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: Geranium Phaeum Album prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly. However, it is important not to over-water the plant as it may lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer once a year can help promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Geranium Phaeum Album prefers rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers in such conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Phaeum Album is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Phaeum Album is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by slugs, snails, and aphids. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or other organic pest control methods. In terms of diseases, root rot can occur if the plant is over-watered or grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and watered appropriately.
Habitat
Geranium Phaeum Album is native to Europe and western Asia and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along streams. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant is commonly grown in gardens worldwide and is a popular choice for borders, rock gardens, and woodland gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Phaeum Album an invasive species?
A: No, Geranium Phaeum Album is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Geranium Phaeum Album be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Phaeum Album can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Geranium Phaeum Album be fertilized?
A: Geranium Phaeum Album does not require frequent fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring is usually sufficient.
Q: How often should Geranium Phaeum Album be watered?
A: Geranium Phaeum Album prefers moist soil but does not like to be over-watered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Geranium Macrorrhizum
- Geranium Sanguineum
- Geranium Rozanne
- Geranium Pratense
References
- “Geranium Phaeum Album.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4438/Geranium-phaeum-Album/Details (accessed 24 Mar. 2021).
- “Geranium Phaeum Album.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c770 (accessed 24 Mar. 2021).
- “Geranium Phaeum Album.” Plants for a Future. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Geranium+phaeum+Album (accessed 24 Mar. 2021).
