Origin
The Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais, commonly known as the Pink Marshmallow Pelargonium, is a species of perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. This species is native to the coastal regions of the Western Cape Province in South Africa, where it grows in sandy soils in the fynbos vegetation.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as Pink Marshmallow Pelargonium, Rose-scented Pelargonium, or simply, Marshmallow.
Uses
The Pink Marshmallow Pelargonium has several medicinal uses. Its leaves can be used to make herbal tea, which is often used to treat respiratory infections, sore throat, and headaches. The plant is also used as a decorative plant due to its sweet rose-like fragrance and attractive pink flowers. In addition, the plant can be used as a natural insect repellent. The essential oil extracted from the plant is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance mood.
General appearance
The Pink Marshmallow Pelargonium is a low-growing, perennial herbaceous plant that reaches a height of up to 30 cm. The plant is characterized by its soft, velvety leaves that are light green in color, heart-shaped, and deeply lobed. The leaves and stems of the plant are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces numerous pink flowers that have a diameter of up to 3 cm and are lightly scented with a rose-like fragrance. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring, and sometimes in the autumn.
Growth Conditions for Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais, commonly known as the golden peacock geranium, is a species of flowering plant in the Geraniaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its attractive yellow flowers and drought-tolerant nature. Understanding the typical growth conditions for this plant is crucial for its successful cultivation.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais grows best in full sun or partial shade. In areas with harsh afternoon sunlight, partial shade is recommended. Inadequate light can lead to weak stems and sparse foliage, while excess light can burn the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to a Mediterranean climate, with moderate temperatures and low humidity. The ideal temperature range for Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius or above 35 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The golden peacock geranium prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A soil mix consisting of equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal. The soil should not be overly rich in organic matter, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Watering Requirements
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still requires regular watering. The frequency of watering depends on the growing conditions and the time of year. During the growing season, the plant should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage root growth. In the winter, the plant should be watered sparingly to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements
The golden peacock geranium does not require heavy fertilization. A general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once every two to three months during the growing season. Excessive fertilization can lead to leggy growth and reduced flower production.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais is best cultivated in a well-draining sandy-to-loamy soil mix that's enriched with organic compost. The plant requires full sun, a minimum temperature of 50°F, and protection from frost. It can be propagated from stem cuttings, seeds, or layering.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and the frequency should change depending on the season. During the growing season, which usually occurs in spring and summer, the plant should be watered thoroughly once every seven to ten days. It's recommended to water it thoroughly until the excess water drains from the bottom of the container. In the winter, the frequency of watering should be reduced, and only water the plant when the soil dries out.
Fertilization
The plant is not a heavy feeder, and excessive fertilization may cause more harm than good. However, it helps to fertilize the plant during the growing season because it boosts the production of flowers and foliage. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once every two weeks.
Pruning
The plant grows rapidly and has a sprawling habit. To maintain an attractive shape, you may prune it lightly during the growing season. Pinching the tips of the young branches encourages bushier growth and the production of more flowers. Additionally, removing the spent blooms also helps to prevent the plant from developing seed pods, redirecting its energy back to growth and development. Remove any dead, dying, or diseased growth as soon as possible. You may do extensive pruning once every few years to rejuvenate the plant and promote new growth.
Propagation of Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais can be propagated by different methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais can be planted during spring or summer in a well-draining seed-raising mix. The seeds must be lightly covered with the soil mix, and the container should be placed in a warm, well-lit area. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks, and the seedlings can be potted once they have developed a few true leaves.
Stem or Tip Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings can be collected from Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais during spring or summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots and should be approximately 10cm long. Remove any leaves at the bottom and allow the cuttings to dry for a day before dipping in rooting hormone and planting in well-draining soil. Water the soil and place the cutting in a warm, shaded area for about a week. After this, the cutting can be moved to a brighter location, and roots should start to develop within 3-4 weeks.
Division Propagation
Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais can also be propagated by dividing the plant during spring when it is actively growing. Dig up the plant and separate the individual plants or clumps by carefully pulling the root system apart with your hands or using a sharp tool. Replant the divided sections into a planting hole or potting mix with good drainage. Water well and keep the plant in a sheltered area for a few days before moving to its final growing location.
Disease Management
The Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. The common diseases that affect the plant are:
- Botrytis cinerea: This is a fungal disease that causes grey mold on flowers, leaves, and stems. It spreads rapidly in high humidity conditions and can cause the plant's death. The management strategy for Botrytis cinerea involves removing infected leaves and flowers and improving ventilation to reduce humidity levels.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by several fungal pathogens, and it is characterized by small, circular lesions on leaves. The infected leaves turn yellow and drop prematurely. The management strategy for Leaf spot involves removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to the growth of pathogenic fungi. The management strategy for root rot involves controlling the plant's watering and improving the soil drainage.
Pest Management
The Pelargonium auritum (L.) Willd. var. carneum (Harv.) E.M.Marais is also prone to pest infestations. The common pests that affect the plant are:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that infest the plant's leaves and cause yellow spots. They thrive in dry and warm conditions, leading to the death of the plant. The management strategy for spider mites involves using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control their population.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, flying insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves. They lead to stunted growth, wilting, and deformation of the plant. The management strategy for whiteflies involves putting sticky traps to capture the adult insects and using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control their population.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that infest the plant's flowers and buds, leading to reduced growth and damage to the flowers. The management strategy for thrips involves using sticky traps to capture the adult insects and spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
