Contents
Description
Geranium Sylvaticum Album, also known as White Wood Cranesbill, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geranium family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely known for its attractive white flowers and green foliage. The plant is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice among gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Sylvaticum Album grows up to 60cm tall and spreads up to 50cm wide. It has green, deeply lobed leaves that are around 10cm in diameter. The plant produces small, white flowers that are around 2cm in diameter and have five petals. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by seed pods that resemble a crane’s beak. The plant’s foliage turns red in autumn, adding to its visual appeal.
Care Guide
Geranium Sylvaticum Album is a relatively low maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. However, make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: Geranium Sylvaticum Album thrives in partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Sylvaticum Album is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests feed on the plant’s leaves and flowers, leaving behind holes and slime trails. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep them at bay.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
Habitat
Geranium Sylvaticum Album is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along stream banks. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Sylvaticum Album be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Geranium Sylvaticum Album be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: How do I propagate Geranium Sylvaticum Album?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in spring or autumn.
Q: Is Geranium Sylvaticum Album deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is resistant to deer and other grazing animals.
Related Plants
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium phaeum
- Geranium maculatum
- Geranium sanguineum
References
- “Geranium sylvaticum Album.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11277/Geranium-sylvaticum-Album/Details.
- “Geranium sylvaticum Album.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b303.
- “Geranium sylvaticum Album.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2046/white-wood-cranesbill/.
