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Description
Pelargonium Rodneyanum, also known as the Rodney Pelargonium, is a species of flowering plant in the Geraniaceae family. It is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and was first discovered in 1928 by H.H. Wills. The plant is named after Rodney, the son of Dr. R.C. Holmes, who was a friend of Wills.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
Pelargonium Rodneyanum is a small, perennial shrub that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has succulent, grey-green leaves that are slightly hairy and have a distinctive citrus fragrance when crushed. The flowers are pink, with dark red stripes on the upper petals, and are produced in small clusters on long stalks. The plant blooms from late winter to early summer.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Rodneyanum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Pelargonium Rodneyanum prefers full sun to partial shade. Place the plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Pelargonium Rodneyanum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pelargonium Rodneyanum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant’s sap and can cause yellowing, bronzing, and webbing on the leaves.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease causes grey mold to form on the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Pelargonium Rodneyanum is native to the Western Cape of South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pelargonium Rodneyanum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Rodneyanum can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Pelargonium Rodneyanum?
A: Water the plant thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Pelargonium Rodneyanum tolerate frost?
A: No, Pelargonium Rodneyanum is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pelargonium Rodneyanum?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Pelargonium capitatum
- Pelargonium crispum
- Pelargonium denticulatum
- Pelargonium graveolens
References
- “Pelargonium rodneyanum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2018, http://pza.sanbi.org/pelargonium-rodneyanum.
- “Pelargonium rodneyanum.” The Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/208745/Pelargonium-rodneyanum/Details.
- “Pelargonium rodneyanum.” World of Flowering Plants, 2021, https://worldoffloweringplants.com/pelargonium-rodneyanum-rodney-pelargonium/.
