Overview
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii (O. & I. Deg.) St. John, commonly known as Forbes’ geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It is highly valued in both traditional and modern medicine for its therapeutic properties and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Origin
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii is native to North America and can be found from California to Oregon. It is commonly found growing in open meadows, rocky slopes, and woodland clearings.
Common Names
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii is commonly known as Forbes’ geranium, many-flowered geranium, and purple-flowered geranium.
Uses
The plant is highly valued for its therapeutic properties and has been historically used for the treatment of a variety of ailments including diarrhea, fever, and respiratory infections. It was also used to treat skin irritations and wounds. Today, Forbes’ geranium is used in various forms such as tinctures, teas, and essential oils. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote sleep.
Appearance
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has an upright stem that is branched and covered with short hairs. Its leaves are deeply divided into five to seven lobes and are round or kidney-shaped. The flowers of Forbes’ geranium are purple to lavender in color with 5 petals. The plant blooms from May to August and produces fruit that is a capsule containing up to 8 seeds.
Light Conditions
The Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii prefers full sunlight to partial shade. During the growing period, the plant must be located in an area that receives at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii can grow well in a range of temperatures; however, it prefers a climate that is mild and not too harsh. The plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 6-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C) and as high as 110°F (43°C).
Soil Conditions
The soil where the Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii is planted must have excellent drainage to prevent root rot. The plant grows best in well-drained soils that are fertile and rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Before planting, the soil must be prepared by adding compost or organic matter to improve the soil's structure and nutrient content.
Water Requirements
The Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii requires moderate watering during the growing season. The plant must be watered deeply but not frequently to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization
The Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii does not require frequent fertilization. However, the plant can benefit from a compost or organic matter application annually to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. It is best to apply fertilizers during the growing period.
Cultivation
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii (O.& I. Deg.) St. John grows well in well-draining soil, and it enjoys full sunlight. It is highly tolerant of frost and drought, making it an easy-to-grow plant. Propagation is easy and can be done through seeds or cuttings. The plant thrives in USDA zones 7-10.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers a moist but well-drained soil. Water it once a week, especially during the growing season. However, be cautious not to overwater as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii (O.& I. Deg.) St. John, but it can benefit from a light, balanced fertilizer once a month during active growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that can encourage foliage growth over flower production.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning, but trimming back the stems after the first flush of flowering can encourage more blooms. Deadheading benefits the plant's appearance and can extend the flowering period.
Propagation of Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii
The Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii, commonly known as Forbes' Geranium, can be propagated by two methods, including seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation through Seeds
One of the most common methods of propagating Forbes' Geranium is by seed. To start this process, collect seeds from mature plants by snipping off the seed pods. Place the harvested seeds in a container and allow them to dry before planting. Germination will occur within three weeks of sowing the seeds, and you may transplant the young seedlings outdoors after hardening them off.
It is important to keep the seedlings in a sunny location with well-draining soil to promote healthy growth. Forbes' Geranium grows best in moderately moist soil with good drainage but requires protection from hot, direct sunlight. Once planting is complete, be sure to keep the soil evenly watered to keep the plants from wilting.
Vegetative Propagation
Another method of propagating Forbes' Geranium is vegetative propagation, where you can use cuttings from mature plants to grow new ones. Propagation through vegetative methods ensures that new plants retain all the desirable features and traits of the parent plant.
To begin the process, find a healthy mature plant and take cuttings with a sharp, clean pair of scissors. Be sure to make the cuttings at an angle to create a larger surface area for rooting. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and insert it into well-draining soil. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and put it in a bright area without direct sunlight.
After two to four weeks, you should see signs of root development. At this point, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or, if desired, into your garden. When transplanting, be gentle with the roots to avoid damaging them. Ensure that the soil around the new plant stays moist, but be careful not to overwater to avoid root rot.
Common Diseases and Pests of Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii (O. & I. Deg.) St. John
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. forbesii (O. & I. Deg.) St. John, also known as Forbes's geranium, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, like any other plant, it is vulnerable to certain pests and diseases under certain growing conditions.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Forbes's geranium is leaf spot disease. It is caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in warm and humid conditions. The symptoms of the disease include brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy any infected leaves and to avoid overhead watering or any other practices that can lead to the buildup of moisture around the leaves.
Another disease that can affect Forbes's geranium is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. The symptoms of powdery mildew include a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and other parts of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to water the plant at the base rather than overhead and to ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Forbes's geranium is aphids. These tiny insects feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to become distorted and stunted. To manage aphids, it is recommended to blast them off the plant with a strong jet of water or to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can affect Forbes's geranium is spider mites. These tiny pests feed on the plant sap and can cause the leaves to become yellow and stippled. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to keep the plant well-watered and to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, prevention is the best defense against diseases and pests in Forbes's geranium. By providing the plant with proper growing conditions and avoiding practices that can lead to disease and pest buildup, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
