Origin and Common Names
Geranium articulatum Cav., also known as broken bones, is native to South America in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family and is a herbaceous perennial plant.General Appearance
This plant grows up to 30 centimeters in height and has delicate stems that are easily breakable, hence its common name "broken bones." The leaves are deeply lobed and fern-like, with a dark green color and a velvety texture. The flowers are small, pink or purple in color, with five petals and a distinctive beak-shaped seed capsule.Uses
Geranium articulatum Cav. has several uses, both medicinal and ornamental. The plant contains tannins, which make it useful in treating diarrhea, inflammation of the mouth and gums, and skin infections. It is also used as an astringent and as an antiseptic. As an ornamental plant, its attractive foliage and delicate flowers make it a popular choice for garden borders and rock gardens. In addition, the plant is known for its medicinal benefits. It is useful in treating various conditions like fever, gastrointestinal disorders, pain and inflammation, and respiratory issues. The crushed leaves of the plant are used as a local wound treatment and as an insect repellent. In conclusion, Geranium articulatum Cav. is a useful and attractive plant with a wide variety of uses. Its delicate foliage and flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental gardening, while its medicinal properties make it a valuable plant for traditional medicine practitioners.Growth Conditions for Geranium articulatum Cav.
Light: Geranium articulatum Cav. prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow well in areas with intense sunlight, but it needs some shade during the hottest part of the day, especially in warm and dry areas.
Temperature: Geranium articulatum Cav. prefers warm temperatures between 18-25°C (65-77°F) and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 30°C (86°F). It is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought, but it is sensitive to frosts and cannot tolerate temperatures below freezing.
Soil: Geranium articulatum Cav. prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and structure, leading to better growth and flowering.
Water: Geranium articulatum Cav. is adapted to dry conditions, so it can tolerate drought and infrequent watering. However, it needs regular watering during prolonged dry periods to avoid stress and damage. It is important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilizer: Geranium articulatum Cav. does not need much fertilizer. However, adding a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year can improve its growth and flowering. Applying fertilizer in the spring or early summer can help provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to develop and flower.
Propagation: Geranium articulatum Cav. can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring, while cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer. Propagating by cuttings is the best method to ensure that the new plants are identical to the parent plant.
Cultivation Methods for Geranium articulatum Cav.
Geranium articulatum Cav. is a hardy plant that is not too demanding to cultivate. Ensure to plant it in a well-draining and fertile soil mix that contains peat or compost to boost soil nutrients and water retention. The soil pH should range between 6.0 and 7.5. A pH higher than 7.5 may result in yellowing of the leaves. The plant thrives well in full sun, but it can also do well in partial shade.
Watering Needs for Geranium articulatum Cav.
These plants require moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist during the growing season, but take care to avoid overwatering as it may cause root rot. Water deeply but sparingly, making sure the soil does not dry out completely between watering sessions. Over time, regulate watering schedules based on the weather conditions. During winter and slowdown periods, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization of Geranium articulatum Cav.
The plant requires a regular supply of nutrients to grow and remain healthy. Add standard fertilizer to the soil every four to six weeks during the growing season, starting from early spring to the end of summer. You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer to the soil, which will release nutrients gradually throughout the season. Avoid feeding during the winter or dormant season.
Pruning Geranium articulatum Cav.
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant healthy and promote bushy, compact growth. It also helps to remove spent flowers and prevent diseases. Trim the plant to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems or leaves. Prune back the plant when it becomes too leggy or overgrown. Cut just above a node or at a point where a leaf joins the stem to promote the growth of lateral shoots. Prune as necessary throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Geranium articulatum Cav.
Geranium articulatum Cav., commonly known as joint-stalked geranium, is a plant species belonging to the Geraniaceae family. The plant is native to South America, and it has attractive pink flowers that make it a popular garden plant. Propagation of Geranium articulatum can be done through:
Seeds
Geranium articulatum is propagated primarily through seeds. Seeds can be collected from the plants during the flowering season, which usually occurs in early summer. The seeds can be harvested by allowing the flowers to dry on the plant naturally. Once the seeds have ripened, they can be collected and stored in a cool and dry place. To promote germination, seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and covered lightly with soil. Germination should occur within 7 to 21 days.
Division
Geranium articulatum can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant's roots into smaller sections and replanting them. Division should be performed in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into sections with a sharp knife or gardening tool. Each division should have at least one stem and a good root system. Replant the divisions in new pots or in the garden bed, making sure to water them well.
Cuttings
Geranium articulatum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is most successful in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Take a stem cutting that is 4-6 inches long, making sure it has several leaves. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving at least one or two at the top of the cutting. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to increase humidity. In about 4-6 weeks, roots should begin to form, and the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or to the garden bed.
In conclusion, Geranium articulatum can be propagated through seeds, division, or stem cuttings. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best one to use depends on the grower's experience, equipment, and plant material.
Disease Management
Geranium articulatum Cav. is generally resistant to diseases but may sometimes fall prey to certain fungal diseases such as Botrytis blight, rust, and Verticillium wilt.
Botrytis blight is mostly observed under humid weather conditions, and the first symptoms appear as brown spots on leaves, followed by wilting and death of the affected parts. To manage Botrytis blight, remove the infected parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide sprays are also effective, and you may choose among copper, chlorothalonil, or mancozeb-based products.
Rust infections appear as yellow-orange blisters on the lower leaves and may eventually lead to defoliation. To manage rust, remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide sprays can also help control the infection. Commonly used fungicides for rust management include tebuconazole, myclobutanil, or azoxystrobin-based products.
Verticillium wilt is characterized by yellowing and wilting of the leaves and stems. It can occur due to fungal attack, and the symptoms generally appear on one side of the plant. To manage Verticillium wilt, remove the infected plant and avoid replanting in the same area. It is recommended to conduct soil solarization to eradicate the fungus and its spores.
Pest Management
Geranium articulatum Cav. may commonly attract certain pests such as spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites usually appear on the undersides of leaves and form webbing on the affected parts. A severe infestation may lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap or summer oil, or use neem-based products. It is crucial to avoid water stress on the plant as spider mites thrive under dry conditions.
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants and cause deformation of leaves and stunted growth. They can also transmit viral infections to the plant. To manage aphids, wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap or summer oil, or use neem-based products. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization of the plant as aphids are attracted to plants with excess nitrogen.
