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Description
Pelargonium Ovale, commonly known as Rose-Scented Geranium, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and has been widely cultivated around the world for its fragrant leaves and beautiful flowers. The leaves of Pelargonium Ovale are round, lobed, and have a velvety texture. The flowers are pink, white, or purple and bloom in clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Ovale can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. The leaves are green, round or kidney-shaped and have a velvety texture. The flowers are pink, white, or purple and bloom in clusters. The petals are symmetrical and have a five-petal arrangement. The flowers are also edible and can be used to make tea, syrup, or as a garnish in salads.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Ovale is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Rose-Scented Geranium healthy:- Water: Pelargonium Ovale prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilization as it can damage the plant.- Soil: Pelargonium Ovale prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Use a potting mix that contains perlite or sand to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Pelargonium Ovale needs full sun to partial shade to grow. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect flower production.- Hardiness Zones: Pelargonium Ovale is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. If you live in a colder climate, grow Pelargonium Ovale as an indoor plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Ovale is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of leaves and webs on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.- Whiteflies: These pests can cause yellowing of leaves and black sooty mold. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Pelargonium Ovale is native to South Africa and grows in dry, rocky areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Pelargonium Ovale is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can you propagate Pelargonium Ovale?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Ovale can be propagated from stem cuttings or by division.
Q: How often should you fertilize Pelargonium Ovale?
A: Fertilize Pelargonium Ovale once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: How tall can Pelargonium Ovale grow?
A: Pelargonium Ovale can grow up to 3 feet in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pelargonium Ovale?
A: Pelargonium Ovale is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
– Pelargonium Graveolens- Pelargonium Citronellum- Pelargonium Capitatum- Pelargonium Zonale- Pelargonium Peltatum
References
– “Pelargonium Ovale.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d127.- “Rose-Scented Geranium.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/scented-geranium/rose-scented-geranium-care.htm.
