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Description
Geranium Solanderi, also known as Solander’s Geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern region of North America, particularly in California, and is known for its delicate flowers and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Solanderi has small, round leaves that are deeply lobed and have a distinctive scent. The flowers of this plant are usually pink or lavender, with five petals that are arranged in a star-like shape. The blooms typically measure about 2 cm in diameter and appear in clusters from spring to fall.
Care Guide
Geranium Solanderi is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil, and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Geranium Solanderi does not require frequent fertilization, but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers loamy, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Geranium Solanderi thrives in full sun to partial shade, and should be protected from intense afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Solanderi is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by spider mites or powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Geranium Solanderi is native to the southwestern region of North America, particularly in California. This plant can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodland.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Solanderi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Solanderi can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives sufficient sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Geranium Solanderi?
A: Geranium Solanderi should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions.
Q: Does Geranium Solanderi attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Geranium Solanderi is known to attract butterflies and bees.
Q: Can Geranium Solanderi be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Geranium Solanderi can be propagated from stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium cinereum
References
- “Geranium solanderi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287511&isprofile=0&. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Geranium solanderi.” Plant of the Month, University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley, botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu/featured-plant/geranium-solanderi. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Geranium solanderi.” Pacific Horticulture Society, www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/geranium-solanderi/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
