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Description
Geranium Wislizeni, also known as Wislizeni’s Geranium, is a wildflower that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. This perennial plant produces small pink, purple, or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The leaves of Geranium Wislizeni are deeply lobed and have a fern-like appearance.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Angiosperms |
Class | Eudicots |
Order | Geraniales |
Family | Geraniaceae |
Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Wislizeni is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 1 foot in height and 2 feet in width. Its leaves are typically green, but can turn reddish or bronze during the fall season. The flowers of the plant are small, with a diameter of about 1 inch, and have five petals that form a cup-like shape. The petals can be pink, purple, or white, and have darker veins that add contrast to the flower’s appearance. Geranium Wislizeni’s blooms are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
To take care of Geranium Wislizeni, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and to plant it in the right hardiness zone.- Water: Geranium Wislizeni prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.- Fertilization: The plant does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it is beneficial to give it a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Geranium Wislizeni thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is optimal for the plant.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Wislizeni is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Wislizeni is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites. To prevent these issues, it is important to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If pests or diseases do occur, they can be treated with insecticidal soap or a fungicide.
Habitat
Geranium Wislizeni is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and rocky slopes. The plant grows well in dry, arid conditions and is adapted to drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Geranium Wislizeni grow in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Wislizeni can be grown in containers as long as the container has adequate drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Geranium Wislizeni?
A: It is recommended to fertilize the plant once in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Geranium Wislizeni tolerate frost?
A: No, Geranium Wislizeni is not frost-tolerant and may die back during the winter months.
Q: Is Geranium Wislizeni deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Geranium Wislizeni is deer-resistant and is not typically eaten by deer or other wildlife.
Related Plants
– Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium)- Geranium sanguineum (Bloody Cranesbill)- Geranium pratense (Meadow Cranesbill)
References
– “Geranium Wislizeni.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GEWI.- “Wislizeni’s Geranium.” Arizona State University, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Geranium&species=wislizenii.