Contents
Description
Geranium Platyanthum, commonly known as Broad-petaled Geranium, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geranium family. It is native to the Western United States and is a popular plant for gardens and landscapes. It features large, pink-purple flowers with five petals and a distinctive stamen. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can grow up to 2 feet in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
The leaves of Geranium Platyanthum are deeply lobed and have a green color. The flowers of the plant are large, and the petals are pink-purple in color with a white center. The stamen is very prominent and has a dark purple color. The plant can grow up to 2 feet in height and has a spreading habit. It is an excellent choice for garden borders or as a ground cover.
Care Guide
Water: Geranium Platyanthum prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. You can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring or a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil acidity but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Sunlight: Geranium Platyanthum prefers full sunlight but can also grow in partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Platyanthum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide proper air circulation. The plant can also attract aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Geranium Platyanthum is native to the Western United States and can be found growing in meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil acidity.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Geranium Platyanthum grow in containers?
A. Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough for the plant to spread.
Q. How do I propagate Geranium Platyanthum?
A. The plant can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring.
Q. Can Geranium Platyanthum tolerate drought?
A. Yes, the plant can tolerate drought but prefers moderate watering.
Q. How often should I prune Geranium Platyanthum?
A. Prune the plant in the spring to promote new growth and remove any dead or diseased stems.
Related Plants
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium cinereum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/geranium/growing-broad-petaled-geranium.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/geranium_platyanthum.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/geranium-platyanthum-broad-petaled-cranesbill
