Overview
Geranium plicatum Thunb. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. Commonly known as the Plumed Cranesbill, this plant is native to eastern Asia and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant is well known for its delicate and attractive flowers, as well as its many uses in traditional medicine.
Description
Geranium plicatum is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. The leaves are deeply lobed, toothed, and palmately veined. The flowers of this plant are born in umbels and have five petals in shades of pink or purple with interesting veining. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that splits open when ripe, releasing the seeds for further propagation.
Common Names
In addition to Plumed Cranesbill, Geranium plicatum is also known as Japanese Geranium, Hirsute Cranesbill, and Plicate-leaved Geranium.
Uses
Geranium plicatum has a variety of medicinal uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, the plant is used to reduce inflammation, promote digestion, and alleviate pain. The plant has also been used to treat diarrhea, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. Its leaves can be used to make a tea or decoction, and its fruits can be processed to produce an oil that has antiseptic properties. Additionally, the plant is commonly grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light requirements
The Geranium plicatum Thunb. plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is recommended to plant it in areas with semi-shade, where it can receive at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with extremely hot summer temperatures, it is best to provide it with some shade during the midday period to prevent sunburn on the leaves.
Temperature requirements
The Geranium plicatum Thunb. plant prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures between 10°C to 27°C, but the average temperature range where it thrives is between 18°C to 22°C. It is important to protect it from frost as it cannot tolerate temperatures below 0°C.
Soil requirements
The Geranium plicatum Thunb. plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range between 6.0 - 7.5. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Geranium plicatum Thunb. is a perennial plant that grows well in full sun or partial shade. It requires a well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The best time to plant Geranium plicatum Thunb. is during the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild. Make sure to space the plants at least 12 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Geranium plicatum Thunb. requires regular watering to establish and thrive. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce the watering frequency during the winter months and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Geranium plicatum Thunb. is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a well-balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter months.
Pruning
Pruning Geranium plicatum Thunb. is important to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back the stems to just above a healthy leaf or bud. Remove dead or diseased stems throughout the year to maintain plant health.
Propagation of Geranium plicatum Thunb.
Propagating Geranium plicatum Thunb. is not a difficult process. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division of the roots.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Geranium plicatum Thunb. can be collected from matured and fully ripen fruits. Collect the seeds and sow them in well-drained soil in the spring season. Germination typically takes place within two to four weeks at a temperature of 18-22 °C. The young plants should be transferred to individual containers when the first true leaves appear.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is a faster and more reliable way to obtain plants with characteristics identical to the parent plant. The cuttings should be taken from the plant during the growing season. Choose a healthy stem consisting of several leaves and cut it just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone before planting it in moist potting soil. Cover the pot with clear plastic to maintain humidity and place it in a bright place avoiding direct sunlight. Rooting generally takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Division of the roots is an easy way to propagate Geranium plicatum Thunb. The best time to divide the plant is usually in the early spring when new growth is just starting. Carefully remove the plant from its container or garden bed, and gently separate the roots with your fingers, making sure that each section has both roots and shoots. Replant the divisions in prepared soil and water them well. They begin to grow rapidly in a few days.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium plicatum Thunb.
Geranium plicatum Thunb., commonly known as the plumed geranium, is a hardy and low-maintenance plant. However, it is not completely resistant to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Geranium plicatum Thunb. and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes brown or greyish spots on leaves, flowers, and stems. The spots may develop a yellow halo around them and can quickly spread, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and always water at the base of the plant.
Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow powdery spots on leaves and stems. It can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. To manage rust, remove the affected leaves and stems and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Common Pests
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and wither. They can also spread viruses from plant to plant. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to the garden.
Spider Mites: These are very tiny pests that cause yellowish spots on leaves and fine webbing on the plant. They feed on the plant's fluids, causing it to become weak and stunted. To manage spider mites, wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. Introduce natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs to the garden.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Geranium plicatum Thunb. healthy and thriving. Regular inspection of the plant can also help you detect any problems early and take necessary precautions before the situation worsens.
