Introduction: Pelargonium benguellense (Welw. ex Oliv.) Engl.
Pelargonium benguellense, also known as Benguela geranium, is a plant species that is native to Angola, specifically in the provinces of Benguela and Huila. This plant belongs to the family Geraniaceae and is a member of the Pelargonium genus, which contains over 200 species of flowering plants. Pelargonium benguellense has been widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers and foliage.
Description
Pelargonium benguellense is a perennial herb that can grow up to 40 cm tall. It has succulent stems and leaves that are hairy and slightly fragrant when crushed. The leaves are deeply lobed, with long and narrow leaflets that can reach up to 8 cm in length. The flowers grow on tall, slender stalks that rise above the foliage and are arranged in umbels. The flowers are usually pale pink, with five petals, and have a diameter of about 2 cm.
Common Names and Uses
Pelargonium benguellense is commonly known as Benguela geranium or Angola geranium. In Angola, this plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as respiratory infections, digestive problems, and skin conditions. The leaves and stems are boiled to make a tea or infusion, which is then ingested or applied topically. In other parts of the world, Pelargonium benguellense is mostly grown as an ornamental plant and is used to add color and texture to gardens, balconies, and indoor spaces.
Cultivation
Pelargonium benguellense is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering, with some dryness between waterings. This plant can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun exposure. Pelargonium benguellense can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, but the latter is more common and easier to achieve. In fertile and healthy soil, this plant can bloom profusely from spring to fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Conclusion
Pelargonium benguellense is a beautiful and versatile plant that deserves more recognition and appreciation. Whether used for its medicinal properties or as an ornamental plant, this species is a shining example of nature's diversity and resilience.
Light Requirements
The Pelargonium benguellense (Welw. ex Oliv.) Engl. plant prefers a location with bright, indirect light. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods and should be kept away from intense afternoon rays. Place the plant in a well-lit area that receives bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
The Pelargonium benguellense (Welw. ex Oliv.) Engl. plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C) during the day and between 50-60°F (10-16°C) at night. Temperatures above 80°F (27°C) or below 40°F (4°C) may harm the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The Pelargonium benguellense (Welw. ex Oliv.) Engl. plant requires well-draining soil. A loose and porous mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is the ideal choice to provide a well-draining soil environment. The soil pH level of 6.0-7.0 is suitable for optimal growth. It's recommended to repot the plant every 1-2 years to ensure a healthy root system.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium benguellense thrives in well-draining soil with good aeration and full sun. It can survive in partial shade, but full-sun exposure is ideal for best growth results. Sow seeds in Spring or Autumn as the plant needs warm soil to germinate. Ensure that seedlings are placed in a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Watering Needs
Water moderately during Spring and Summer, ensuring that the soil has fully dried before watering again. During the Winter season, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry almost entirely before rewatering. Pelargonium benguellense can withstand short periods of drought but cannot tolerate waterlogging, which can rot its roots.
Fertilization
Pelargonium benguellense plants will benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, high in potassium and low in nitrogen. Feeding should be done during periods of active growth, which typically occurs in Spring and Summer. Be cautious when fertilizing as over-feeding can result in excessive growth, which can make the plant leggy and unappealing.
Pruning
To encourage branching and a bushier appearance, it is essential to pinch Pelargonium benguellense plants back regularly, starting when the plant is a few inches tall. This practice helps the plant to produce more flowers and foliage, resulting in a fuller, more attractive plant. Regular pruning should be carried out by removing the dry, diseased, or dead leaves, stems, and spent flower heads. Pruning should typically be done after the plant has finished blooming and during the Spring season.
Propagation of Pelargonium Benguellense
Pelargonium benguellense is a beautiful species of pelargonium that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. The plant is native to Angola and its striking colors and unique foliage make it a favorite among garden enthusiasts.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest method of propagating Pelargonium benguellense is by using seeds. The seeds are readily available from garden centers or can be collected from the dried fruit capsules of the plant. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil in a shady area. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks. As the seedlings grow, they should be transferred to individual pots and exposed to more sunlight to encourage growth.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem from the plant that is approximately three to four inches long. Carefully remove the leaves from the bottom half inch of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and place it in soil. Water the stem cutting regularly and keep it in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Propagation by Division
The plant can be propagated by splitting the roots of an existing plant. Dig up the root ball of the plant and carefully separate the smaller plants from the larger ones. Replant the smaller plants in individual pots with well-draining soil. Water them regularly and keep them in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Propagation of Pelargonium benguellense is relatively easy and the plant is an excellent addition to any garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium benguellense
Pelargonium benguellense, also known as Benguela geranium, is a unique plant species that belongs to the Pelargonium family. Like other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if not promptly managed.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Pelargonium benguellense include bacterial blight, root rot, and powdery mildew. Bacterial blight is caused by the Pseudomonas syringae bacterium, commonly found in the soil. Symptoms of the disease include yellowing leaves, spots on leaves, and stem rot. Root rot, on the other hand, is caused by the Phytophthora cinnamomi fungus, which attacks the plant's roots, leading to wilting and death. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that is characterized by white powdery substance on the plant's leaves.
Disease Management
To manage bacterial blight and powdery mildew, use a suitable fungicide and ensure adequate air circulation around the plants. Remove and destroy infected plants and avoid overhead watering. Prevent root rot by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering. Remove infected plants and treat the soil with suitable fungicides for infected plants.
Common Pests
Pelargonium benguellense can also be attacked by various pests, including spider mites, whiteflies, and thrips. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant, causing damage to leaves and flowers. Whiteflies, on the other hand, suck plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. Thrips are yet another common pest that feeds on leaves, causing silver streaks on the top surface.
Pest Management
To manage spider mites, introduce natural enemies such as predatory mites or use suitable miticides. For whiteflies and thrips, use yellow sticky traps to monitor and trap the insects. Biological control can also be used by introducing natural enemies such as parasitic wasps and predatory bugs. Additionally, ensure regular and thorough cleaning of the plant's surroundings to remove any debris that may harbor pests.
