Origin
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is a flowering plant that is native to Southeast Asia, specifically India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos.
Common Names
This plant has several common names in the countries where it is indigenous, including Kragga in India, Fai-do-horn in Thailand, and Wan ying cao in China.
Uses
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. has various medicinal properties and is traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine to treat several ailments, including digestive disorders, fever, headaches, and respiratory infections. The plant's roots and leaves can be used to make teas, poultices, and extracts. Furthermore, this plant is an ornamental plant used for decoration purposes.
General Appearance
The Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. plant is a small herbaceous annual plant that grows up to 20-60 cm in height. Its leaves are deeply lobed, resembling a kidney's shape, with a diameter of approximately 10-15 cm. The plant's flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, and purple, and they are five-petaled with a diameter of approximately 2-3 cm. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that splits open when mature.
In summary, the Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is a small herbaceous plant with deeply lobed leaves and colorful flowers that are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Moreover, the plant is ornamental and is used to decorate gardens and pot plants.Light
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. typically grows in partially shaded areas with moderate sunlight exposure. The plant can tolerate full sun exposure as well, but excessive sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt and dry out.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. growth is between 60°F and 75°F. The plant is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F. However, the plant has adapted to seasonal climate changes and can survive fluctuations in temperature.
Soil
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. prefers well-draining, moist soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, as long as the soil is well-aerated and free of debris. The addition of organic matter such as compost or leaf mold can improve soil quality for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The ideal time to plant the seeds is in early spring. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm. For cuttings, take a stem cutting with three to four nodes and dip it in rooting hormone before planting. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Watering needs
The plant prefers moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is better to underwater than overwater. During the hotter seasons, water the plant more frequently. However, do not leave the plant in standing water, as it can harm the roots.
Fertilization
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. requires fertilization once a month, during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer, or a fertilizer with a higher ratio of phosphorus to promote flowering. Follow the package instructions for application. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause damage to the roots.
Pruning
Pruning Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. should be done in the early spring before new growth appears. Use sterile pruning shears to cut back any dead or damaged branches. Also, remove any overcrowded or diseased branches to encourage new growth and promote airflow. If you want to shape the plant, do so during the pruning process.
Propagation of Geranium oxaloides Burm.f.
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is commonly known as the creeping wood sorrel. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the Geranium family, and it is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. The plant produces small pink to lilac colored flowers, and it can grow up to 15 cm tall.
Propagation methods
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. can be propagated by various methods, such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. can be collected after the flowering season. Once collected, they should be sowed in a container filled with well-draining soil that has been moistened previously. The container should be placed in a shaded area, and the soil must be kept moist during the germination period, which usually lasts about two to three weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
The stem cuttings of Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. can be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 5 to 8 cm long and should be taken from the healthy parts of the plant. Once collected, the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. The pot should be kept in a shaded area, and the soil should be kept moist until roots start to form.
Propagation by division
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. can also be propagated by division. This method involves digging up the parent plant and dividing it into smaller sections, keeping the root system intact. The sections should be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture, and they should be kept in a shaded area until they establish a strong root system.
Overall, Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated by various methods. By following the correct propagation techniques, one can easily propagate this beautiful plant and enjoy its beauty in their garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium oxaloides Burm.f.
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f., commonly known as wood geranium, is a hardy perennial plant that grows in a wide range of soil types and pH levels. While it is generally resilient, the plant can fall victim to certain diseases and pests that can affect its overall health and appearance.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora geranii. This disease presents as small, circular brown spots on the leaves, which can grow and merge together, resulting in leaf deformities and defoliation. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy any infected plant material, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide according to manufacturer instructions.
Another problem that can occur with this plant is root rot, often caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms of root rot include wilting leaves, yellowing foliage, and a foul odor from the soil. To prevent root rot, allow the plant's soil to dry out somewhat between watering, ensure it has proper drainage, and avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Pests
Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is generally relatively pest-resistant, but certain insects can still pose a problem. The most common pests affecting this plant are spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing significant damage to the leaves and overall health of the plant. Symptoms of spider mite infestation include stippling or yellowing of the leaves, fine webbing on the plant, and early leaf drop. To manage spider mites, try washing them off with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that also feed on the plant's sap, causing curling or distortion of the leaves, stunted growth, and the presence of honeydew or sooty mold. To manage aphids, try washing them off with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings.
Conclusion
Overall, Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but certain diseases and pests can still impact its health and appearance. By paying attention to signs of leaf spots, root rot, spider mites, and aphids, plant enthusiasts can take steps to keep their Geranium oxaloides Burm.f. in excellent condition.
