Geranium pusillum: Overview
Geranium pusillum, commonly known as Small-flowered Cranesbill, is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Geraniaceae. It is a herbaceous plant that is native to Europe and Western Asia. The plant has a variety of uses, including as an ornamental plant, medicinal herb, and source of edible substances.
Appearance
Geranium pusillum is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of between 10 - 25cm. It has finely cut leaves that are deeply divided into three lobes, and the leaf color varies from green to yellowish-green. The flowers are pale pink or lavender, with darker veining and a diameter of about 1 cm. The fruit is a cylindrical capsule that splits open when ripe to release numerous seeds.
Common Names
Geranium pusillum is commonly known as Small-flowered Cranesbill, Lesser Pink-flowered Geranium, or Small Geranium. It is known as "Chang shan" in Chinese traditional medicine, where it has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including malaria, fever, and pain.
Uses
Geranium pusillum has a variety of uses. In traditional medicine, Geranium pusillum has been used in the treatment of dysentery, diarrhea, enteritis, and tuberculosis. The plant is used as a dietary supplement, and it is believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, Geranium pusillum is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant can also be used as an edible herb in salads, soups, and stews.
Typical Growth Conditions for Geranium pusillum
Geranium pusillum is a highly adaptable plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, certain factors are essential for its optimal growth. Here are some of the critical growth conditions for Geranium pusillum:
Light Requirements
Geranium pusillum thrives best in partial to full sunlight. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to produce vibrant flowers. If the plant receives insufficient light, it tends to become leggy or spindly, with fewer flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to grow Geranium pusillum in a location that receives ample sunlight or under artificial growing lights.
Temperature Requirements
Geranium pusillum is a hardy perennial plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 60 to 75°F. However, this plant is known to survive harsh temperatures of below -20°F and over 100°F. Therefore, Geranium pusillum is suitable for growing in various zones from 4-9.
Soil Requirements
Geranium pusillum thrives in moist and well-draining soil. The pH of the soil should ideally range from 6.1 – 7.8. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil. It requires light, porous soil that retains moisture for a long duration. A soil mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite can provide the perfect growing medium for Geranium pusillum. Adequate soil drainage is crucial for the plant’s root health, as it does not thrive in water-logged conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Geranium pusillum can be grown in a wide range of soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. When propagating by seeds, sow them in the early spring and cover them lightly with soil. When propagating by cuttings, make sure the cuttings are taken from healthy plants and have at least 3-4 nodes.
Watering Needs
Geranium pusillum is drought-tolerant, but it needs regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Geranium pusillum is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid using chemical fertilizers, as they can damage the plant.
Pruning
Geranium pusillum does not require much pruning, but it benefits from deadheading the spent flowers. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and keeps it looking tidy. Prune the plant lightly in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid pruning the plant heavily, as this can weaken it.
Propagation of Geranium pusillum
Geranium pusillum, commonly known as small-flowered geranium, is a low-growing perennial plant that is typically propagated through seeds or cuttings. Here's a brief overview of each propagation method:
Propagating Geranium pusillum from Seeds
One of the easiest ways to propagate Geranium pusillum is through seeds. The seeds need to be sown during the autumn or early spring in moist soil. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and do not cover them. Place the pot in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist all the time. The germination of seeds takes around two weeks. Once the seedling has reached 5cm in height, it can be transplanted elsewhere.
Propagating Geranium pusillum from Cuttings
Geranium pusillum can also be propagated from cuttings. Take a stem from the plant that is about 10cm long and has some leaves. Remove any leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem and dip the end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the stem into a pot with well-draining soil and water it. Cover the pot with plastic and place it in a spot where it will get light shade. In a few weeks, the stem will take root, and when it has grown new leaves, it can be transplanted to a bigger pot or the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium pusillum
Geranium pusillum is a hardy plant that can tolerate various weather conditions. However, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Geranium pusillum and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Geranium pusillum is susceptible to various fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spots, and stem cankers. Fungal diseases can be prevented by controlling the humidity and moisture around the plant. To manage fungal diseases, remove infected plant parts and apply fungicides as directed.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial diseases, such as bacterial leaf spot and crown gall, can also affect Geranium pusillum. To prevent bacterial diseases, avoid over-watering and limit the use of nitrogen fertilizer. To manage bacterial diseases, remove infected plant parts and apply bactericides as directed.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from Geranium pusillum. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help control aphids.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant’s sap and cause yellowing and leaf drop. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap, and keep the humidity around the plant high.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can chew on Geranium pusillum leaves and cause significant damage. To control them, handpick them and place them in a container of soapy water. You can also use slug bait or create physical barriers, such as copper strips, to deter them.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests that can affect Geranium pusillum, you can take the necessary steps to prevent them from damaging your plants. Proper care and management techniques can help keep your plant healthy and thriving.
