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Description
Geranium Wakkerstroomianum, also known as the Wakkerstroom cranesbill, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geranium family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the grasslands and savannas of the Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. This plant is a popular choice among gardeners due to its beautiful flowers and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Wakkerstroomianum grows up to 30 cm tall and spreads up to 60 cm wide. It has lobed leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The plant produces beautiful pink flowers that are about 2 cm wide and have five petals. The blooms appear from spring to summer and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Geranium Wakkerstroomianum is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply once a week. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers a sandy, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Geranium Wakkerstroomianum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Wakkerstroomianum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Geranium Wakkerstroomianum is native to the grasslands and savannas of South Africa. It grows in well-drained soils and is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Wakkerstroomianum grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough and have good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Wakkerstroomianum?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does Geranium Wakkerstroomianum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces beautiful pink flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Geranium Wakkerstroomianum tolerate drought?
A: This plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply once a week. It can tolerate some drought but should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Related Plants
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium cinereum
- Geranium psilostemon
References
- “Geranium Wakkerstroomianum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/gerawakk.htm
- “Geranium Wakkerstroomianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b736
