Contents
Description
Geranium Sanguineum Elke, also known as Bloody Cranesbill, is a clump-forming perennial that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is a hybrid and a cultivar of the native Geranium Sanguineum. This plant produces beautiful, long-lasting flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Sanguineum Elke has deeply lobed, dark green leaves that form a mound about 12 inches tall and wide. The flowers are large, saucer-shaped, and have five petals that are white with pink edges. The center of the flower is a deep magenta color, which contrasts beautifully with the petals. The blooms are held on wiry stems that rise above the foliage to a height of about 18 inches.
Care Guide
Geranium Sanguineum Elke is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Geranium Sanguineum Elke in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Sanguineum Elke is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Sanguineum Elke is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or rust. These can be treated with a fungicide. In addition, slugs, snails, and aphids may occasionally feed on the foliage, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by handpicking.
Habitat
Geranium Sanguineum Elke is native to the Caucasus Mountains, where it grows in rocky meadows and on mountain slopes. It is well adapted to a wide range of soil types and can tolerate drought and cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Geranium Sanguineum Elke?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of soil does Geranium Sanguineum Elke prefer?
A: Plant Geranium Sanguineum Elke in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How tall does Geranium Sanguineum Elke grow?
A: Geranium Sanguineum Elke grows to a height of about 12 inches tall and wide, with flowers that rise to a height of about 18 inches.
Q: Is Geranium Sanguineum Elke deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Geranium Sanguineum Elke is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Geranium Sanguineum
- Geranium Rozanne
- Geranium Maculatum
- Geranium Johnson’s Blue
References
- “Geranium Sanguineum Elke.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c857
- “Geranium Sanguineum Elke.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/158058/Geranium-Sanguineum-Elke/Details
- “Geranium Sanguineum Elke.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=320&PlantTypeID=5
