Origin
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt is a plant species native to South Africa, specifically found in the Northern Cape Province.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the 'Golden Peppermint Geranium' due to its bright yellow-green leaves and strong peppermint scent. It is also referred to as 'Auriculated Geranium' due to its ear-shaped leaves, or simply 'Peppermint Pelargonium'.
Uses
The leaves of Pelargonium auritum subsp. carneum are frequently used to flavor tea, as well as to make potpourri and essential oils because of its pleasant aroma. Traditional medicine suggests that the leaves of this plant can help alleviate stomach problems and can be used as a natural insect repellent. This plant species is also grown as an ornamental plant.
General Appearance
The Golden Peppermint Geranium has a compact and upright growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are aromatic and have a distinct peppermint smell, with a bright yellow-green color and a lobed, ear-like shape. The flowers are small and pink and appear in clusters above the foliage from late winter to late spring. The plant is fairly drought-tolerant and prefers full to partial sun and well-draining soil.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium auritum subsp. carneum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight, but it is important to avoid intense afternoon sun exposure to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures, between 70-80°F (21-27°C), during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. It can tolerate warmer temperatures, but growth may slow down during periods of heat stress and drought.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils with a slightly acidic pH range between 6.0-6.5. Avoid soils that are heavy in clay or have poor drainage, as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt is a hardy perennial shrub that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral pH level. It can be grown in garden beds or pots.
Geraniums prefer to be in a spot where they will receive between 6 and 8 hours of sun each day, but they can tolerate some shade. In very hot weather, they may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent their leaves from burning.
Watering Needs
Geraniums can tolerate dry soil quite well and do not require frequent watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering periods, and the plant should be watered thoroughly each time. Overwatering should be avoided, as this can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
It is best to water the plant early in the morning, which allows the leaves to dry out during the day. Wet leaves in the evening can attract plant diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilize geraniums once every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to lush, green foliage but fewer flowers. Too much fertilizer can also lead to burned roots.
If you notice that your plant is not blooming, you may need to add phosphorous to the soil. This can be done by using a flower-friendly fertilizer or by adding bone meal to the soil.
Pruning
Pruning can help to keep pelargonium auritum healthy and encourage the growth of new flowers. It should be done during the growing season, about 4-6 weeks after flowers have bloomed.
Pinch off spent flowers to encourage new blooms and remove any damaged leaves or stems. If the plant begins to look leggy or overgrown, you can trim back the stems to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt, also known as the golden horse-shoe pelargonium, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It is a perennial plant that can be propagated by various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds from the Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt plant can be easily propagated. The seeds should be collected when the plant produces ripe seed pods. The seeds are then sown in a well-drained potting mix, which should be kept damp and placed in a sunny spot. It will take about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Vegetative propagation
The golden horse-shoe pelargonium can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings can be taken from an established plant, and the lower leaves should be removed to expose a node. The cutting should be placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until roots have formed. Division is another method by which the plant can be propagated by separating the main stem with roots and replanting.
Grafting
Grafting is another method that can be used to propagate the Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt plant. This method is used when you want to combine the roots of one species with another species's top growth. It is a bit complicated, and a skilled person in gardening with this method can help propagate the plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. subsp. carneum (Harv.) J.J.A.van der Walt is a hardy plant, but it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect these plants, along with some methods of managing and preventing them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Pelargonium auritum is stem rot. This is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and eventually rotting. To prevent this, make sure the plant is in well-draining soil and water it sparingly, letting the soil dry out between waterings. If stem rot does occur, remove the affected part of the plant and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide.
Another disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot. This is caused by a fungus and shows up as small brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and make sure the plant has good air circulation. If leaf spot does occur, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Pelargonium auritum is spider mites. These tiny insects can be identified by the white webbing they produce on the plant. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well watered and mist it regularly to increase humidity. If spider mites do appear, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat the remaining plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids are another common pest that can affect Pelargonium auritum. These insects suck the sap from the plant, causing it to become weak and stunted. To prevent aphids, keep the plant healthy and free of dust and debris. If aphids do appear, remove them by hand or treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars can also be a pest on Pelargonium auritum. These insects eat the leaves of the plant, causing damage and weakening the plant. To prevent caterpillars, keep the area around the plant free of debris and leaves. If caterpillars do appear, remove them by hand or treat the plant with a caterpillar-specific insecticide.
By managing the diseases and pests that can affect Pelargonium auritum, you can keep your plants healthy and beautiful. With a little care and attention, these plants can thrive and provide you with joy and beauty.
