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Description
Pelargonium Quercifolium, commonly known as the Oak-leaved Geranium, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is named after its leaves that resemble the shape of oak leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
The Oak-leaved Geranium has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed and resemble the shape of oak leaves, hence the name. The leaves are typically green but can have a reddish tint in full sun. The plant produces small clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that bloom in summer and fall. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in an umbel-shaped inflorescence.
Care Guide
Water: The Oak-leaved Geranium prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Use a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and sand for container-grown plants.
Sunlight: The Oak-leaved Geranium prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9-11 and can be grown as an annual in colder zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oak-leaved Geranium is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. To prevent these issues, ensure proper spacing and good air circulation, and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Oak-leaved Geranium is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and can be found growing in rocky outcrops and well-draining soils. It is well-adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Oak-leaved Geranium be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is watered properly.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Oak-leaved Geranium?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Oak-leaved Geranium tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How do I propagate my Oak-leaved Geranium?
A: The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Pelargonium peltatum (Ivy-leaved Geranium)
- Pelargonium zonale (Common Geranium)
- Pelargonium odoratissimum (Apple Geranium)
- Pelargonium crispum (Lemon-scented Geranium)
References
- “Pelargonium quercifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277386&isprofile=0&basic=pelargonium%20quercifolium.
- “Pelargonium quercifolium.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/232373/Pelargonium-quercifolium/Details.
- “Oak-leaved Geranium.” Gardenia. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pelargonium-quercifolium-oak-leaved-geranium.
