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Description
Pelargonium Fruticosum, commonly known as the Shrubby Storksbill, is a perennial shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking flowers and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Fruticosum is a small, compact shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a woody stem and small, round leaves that are green in color. The flowers are clustered together and range in color from pink to purple. They have five petals and a distinctive storksbill shape, which gives the plant its common name.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Fruticosum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: Pelargonium Fruticosum prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but not excessively. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Pelargonium Fruticosum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant requires full sunlight to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Pelargonium Fruticosum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Fruticosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Powdery mildew and botrytis can also be a problem, especially in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, ensure good air circulation, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected plant material.
Habitat
Pelargonium Fruticosum is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas and on slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight and is drought-tolerant once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pelargonium Fruticosum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Fruticosum can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is planted in well-drained soil.
Q: How often should Pelargonium Fruticosum be fertilized?
A: Pelargonium Fruticosum should be fertilized every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Pelargonium Fruticosum toxic to pets?
A: Pelargonium Fruticosum is not toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep plants out of reach of curious animals.
Q: Can Pelargonium Fruticosum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Fruticosum can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Pelargonium Graveolens- Pelargonium x Hortorum- Pelargonium Zonale- Pelargonium Peltatum
References
– “Pelargonium fruticosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287165&isprofile=0&.- “Pelargonium fruticosum.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/pelargonium-fruticosum.
