Geranium Rotundifolium L. - Overview
Geranium rotundifolium L. is a low-growing plant species found in the family Geraniaceae. The species is native to Europe and western Asia but has now spread to other parts of the world. This plant species is commonly known as Round Leaved Cranesbill or Round-leafed Geranium and is popularly grown for ornamental purposes and medicinal values.
Appearance
The Geranium Rotundifolium L. usually has a height of about 10-50 cm and typically forms a dense mat-like growth pattern. When mature, it forms a rounded shape hence the name 'Round Leaved Cranesbill'. The leaves are typically round with a diameter of 1-3 cm and are deeply lobed. The plant boasts of beautiful, small pink flowers that bloom in May and June with petals that are 10 to 15 mm long. The fruits are hairy, beaked, and resemble a crane's bill with five individual segments.
Uses
Geranium Rotundifolium L. has a variety of uses. As earlier stated, it is grown for ornamental purposes because of it's dense mat-like growth pattern and colorful blooms. The species also has medicinal uses. The roots, stem, flowers, and seeds can be used to make a tea used for treating diarrhea, ailments of the kidney and urinary tract, and sore throat. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties. It is currently being researched for its potential use in cancer treatment since it was found to contain anticancer properties, making it a promising plant for cancer prevention and treatment.
Light Requirements
Geranium rotundifolium L. requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. This plant needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it is essential to place the plant near a window or use grow lights that can mimic natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is well adapted to a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it thrives best within a temperature range of 60-80°F (16-27°C) during the day and 50-70°F (10-21°C) at night. The plant will not survive in high temperatures above 90°F (32°C) for extended periods.
Soil Requirements
Geranium rotundifolium L. prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.8-6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and should not remain waterlogged. This plant species can tolerate drought conditions to some extent but thrives best when planted in moist soil. It is recommended to add compost or other organic materials to the soil before planting to improve its quality.
Cultivation Methods for Geranium Rotundifolium L.
Geranium rotundifolium L. is a plant that thrives in well-drained soils and full sunlight. It can grow in sandy or rocky soils, but it is recommended to mix it with organic matter to retain moisture and nutrients. This plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F and can tolerate drought and heat, making it a low-maintenance plant.
Watering Needs for Geranium Rotundifolium L.
While Geranium rotundifolium L. is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering during dry spells. Watering should be done in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce water loss from evaporation. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and disease. Instead, water once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture.
Fertilization for Geranium Rotundifolium L.
Geranium rotundifolium L. does not require frequent fertilization. It can thrive in nutrient-poor soils but benefits from occasional fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied at half-strength every two months. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, which can burn the roots and damage the plant.
Pruning Geranium Rotundifolium L.
Pruning is an essential part of maintaining the health and appearance of Geranium rotundifolium L. Regular pruning helps to remove dead or damaged branches, promote new growth, and maintain a compact shape. The best time to prune is in the early spring before new growth appears. Cut back the stems to one-third of their length, making sure to leave at least one node on each stem. Deadheading faded flowers can also encourage new blooms and prolong the flowering period.
Propagation of Geranium rotundifolium L.
Geranium rotundifolium L., commonly known as round-leaved crane's bill or roundleaf geranium, is a lovely ornamental plant with round, lobed, and deeply veined leaves. The plant produces attractive pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. If you want to propagate Geranium rotundifolium, here are some of its propagation methods.
Division
The most common and easiest method of propagating Geranium rotundifolium is through division. Division is best done in spring or fall when the plants are actively growing. To do this, gently lift the plant from the soil and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure that each section has sufficient roots. Then plant each division in a well-draining soil mixture and water thoroughly.
Seed Propagation
You can propagate geranium rotundifolium from seeds, but it takes longer to establish than division. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter or early spring. Start by filling a seed tray with a sterilized soil mixture, moisten it with water, and sprinkle the seeds on top. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, mist lightly with water, and moisten the soil without causing it to become waterlogged. Maintain a constant temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) until the germination occurs. Once the seedlings are big enough to handle, transplant them into a larger container or the garden bed.
Cuttings
Geranium rotundifolium can be propagated by taking cuttings from healthy stems. The cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer, as the plant is just starting to put on new growth. To propagate from cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy plant, remove the bottom leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in a container with moistened soil or a rooting medium and place it in a warm and bright location out of direct sunlight. Make sure to keep the soil moist, and in a few weeks, the cutting should start growing roots and new growth.
Propagation is an excellent way to increase your collection of Geranium rotundifolium or to share with family and friends. Regardless of the method used, it is important to provide the right growing conditions to ensure that your newly propagated plants thrive.
Disease Management
Geranium rotundifolium L. is a hardy plant, but it can fall victim to several diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Botrytis blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and can cause gray mold growth on leaves, buds, and stems. To manage botrytis blight, make sure to remove any infected plant parts and practice proper spacing to promote good air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum and can cause a white powdery substance to form on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, water the plant at its base and avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote fungal growth. Additionally, prune back any diseased plant parts and remove any fallen leaves from the surrounding area.
Pest Management
Geranium rotundifolium L. is also vulnerable to pests. Here are some common pests that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause deformities and stunted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, which can dislodge the insects. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to the area.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the chlorophyll from the plant and cause yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, hose down the plant with water and introduce natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs.
Remember that prevention is key to managing diseases and pests in any plant. Make sure to keep the area around the plant clean, provide proper drainage, and maintain consistent watering to promote a healthy and strong plant.
