Plant Description:
Pelargonium crataegifolium (Thunb.) Eckl. & Zeyh. is a perennial herb that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. The plant can grow up to a height of 0.3–0.9 m. It has a succulent stem and foliage that is long and slender. The plant has light green leaves that are deeply divided into three to five toothed lobes.
Origin:
Pelargonium crataegifolium (Thunb.) Eckl. & Zeyh. is native to South Africa, particularly in the winter rainfall area of the Western and Eastern Cape regions. The plant is also found in Namibia.
Common Names:
Pelargonium crataegifolium is commonly known as the hawthorn-leaved pelargonium, or in Afrikaans as vaalkrans. In Xhosa, the plant is referred to as umnenge.
Uses:
The plant is used medicinally as a traditional remedy for the treatment of various ailments such as respiratory tract infections, cough, and sore throat. The leaves and stem of the plant are harvested and made into a decoction. The decoction is taken orally or used as a gargle. The plant is also used in the perfume industry to produce fragrances.
As an ornamental plant, Pelargonium crataegifolium is grown and planted in gardens and landscapes as ground cover or borders. The plant is also popular as a pot plant for indoor decoration.
Light requirements
Pelargonium crataegifolium requires bright, direct sunlight to grow properly. It is best to place the plant in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, the plant can still tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 77°F (25°C). The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, which can cause severe damage to the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from frost and low temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil requirements
Pelargonium crataegifolium requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil must have a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility and drainage. Avoid using heavy soils that retain too much moisture, as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium crataegifolium prefers growing in a well-draining soil mix with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings in the early spring. The plant requires full sun to bloom well, so it should be placed in a south-facing or west-facing window. It can also be grown outdoors as an annual in temperate regions.
Watering Needs
Pelargonium crataegifolium requires moderate watering during the growing season, with the soil kept slightly moist to the touch. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as the plant is sensitive to root rot. It is recommended to let the soil dry out between waterings and reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Organic fertilizers or slow-release pellets can also be used. Overfertilizing should be avoided, as it can lead to weak growth or root burn.
Pruning
Pelargonium crataegifolium can be pruned in the early spring to promote branching and bushiness. It is recommended to remove the spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Deadheading should be done by pinching or cutting the stem just above the second set of leaves below the faded flower. Pruning can also be done in the fall to reduce its size or shape the plant.
Propagation methods for Pelargonium crataegifolium (Thunb.) Eckl. & Zeyh.
Pelargonium crataegifolium (Thunb.) Eckl. & Zeyh. can be propagated using various techniques, which include:
1. Seed propagation
The plant can be grown from seeds. Germination can be achieved through sowing the seeds in a seedbed, and it takes about two weeks for them to germinate. The seedbed must be prepared by mixing compost or sand with topsoil. Seeds must be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and watered well. The seedbed must be covered with a polythene sheet to prevent moisture loss.
2. Stem cutting propagation
Pelargonium crataegifolium can be easily propagated through cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken in spring or early summer, and semi-hardwood cuttings are taken in fall. Cuttings are taken from the tip of the stem, making sure at least two nodes are present. The cuttings must be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings must be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, and they should root within six weeks.
3. Division propagation
The plant can be propagated through division, which is typically done in spring or fall. The plant must be dug out carefully and separated into two or more clumps, making sure that each clump has roots and stems. These clumps are then replanted in prepared soil mixes. The soil must be kept moist, and new growth will appear in four to six weeks.
Pelargonium crataegifolium is an attractive plant that can be propagated easily through various techniques. Seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, and division propagation are some commonly used methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium crataegifolium
Pelargonium crataegifolium, commonly known as hawthorn-leaved pelargonium, is a perennial plant species that requires proper care to thrive and avoid diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant, along with suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Botrytis Blight: It is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It causes a greyish-brown mold to develop on affected parts. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering or excessively moist soil. Prune and dispose of the infected parts, and apply a fungicide to the plant in severe cases.
2. Verticillium Wilt: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that attacks the plant's roots, causing the plant's tissues to wilt and die. There is no cure for this disease, so it's best to remove and destroy the infected plant to prevent the disease's spread.
3. Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange-brown spores to form on the underside of the leaves. It can be managed by removing and destroying the infected leaves, improving air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and applying a fungicide if needed.
Common Pests
1. Spider mites: These small insects are notorious for causing damage to plants. They feed on the plant's sap and can cause the leaves to turn yellow and wither. To manage spider mites, ensure that you keep the soil moist and spray the plant with water regularly. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
2. Aphids: These insects feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to turn yellow and wither. They also produce honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, rinse the plant with water or spray insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Whitefly: This insect feeds on the plant's sap and causes leaves to yellow and wither. It is challenging to manage because it reproduces rapidly. To manage whiteflies, remove the affected leaves, improve air circulation, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs or green lacewings to your garden.
Regular inspection of plants is vital to detect and manage diseases and pests before they spread. Always maintain hygiene practices like cleaning gardening tools and washing your hands after handling infected plants to reduce the chances of disease spread.
