Origin of Pelargonium divaricatum
Also known as the "Saffron-scented Pelargonium," Pelargonium divaricatum belongs to the family of Geraniaceae and is native to South Africa.
Common Names of Pelargonium divaricatum
Pelargonium divaricatum is commonly known by several names, including:
- Saffron-scented pelargonium
- Sparrmannia-leaved pelargonium
- Wiry-stemmed pelargonium
- Divaricate pelargonium
Uses of Pelargonium divaricatum
The Pelargonium divaricatum plant has several uses, including:
- Ornamental purposes: Pelargonium divaricatum is commonly grown as a garden flower due to its beautiful foliage and pink-coloured flowers.
- Aromatic essence: Pelargonium divaricatum also has a strong scent that is similar to that of saffron, making it a popular choice as an essential oil used in perfumes, soaps, and aromatherapy.
- Medicinal Benefits: Some traditional medicines of South Africa use Pelargonium divaricatum as a treatment for coughs, colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses.
General Appearance of Pelargonium divaricatum
The Pelargonium divaricatum plant has wiry, green stems with small, deeply lobed leaves with a velvety texture, and a clear sappy sap. The flowers appear in clusters ranging from 5 to 10 per stalk and are composed of five petals that range in colour from shades of pink to white. The plant typically grows up to 1 to 1.5 m in height and has an upright habit, making it an attractive ornamental flower that brightens up any garden or indoor space.
Growth Conditions for Pelargonium divaricatum (Thunb.) DC.
Pelargonium divaricatum, also known as the Natal ivy geranium, is a South African native that is a popular indoor houseplant. When providing ideal conditions, Pelargonium divaricatum is relatively easy to care for and can thrive for many years.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium divaricatum is adapted to thrive in bright, indirect light. In its natural environment, it grows in the understory of forests under filtered light. When grown indoors, place the plant near a north or east-facing window. Bright, direct sunlight can cause sunburn on the leaves and discoloration.
Temperature Requirements
The Natal ivy geranium prefers moderate temperatures and does not like too much heat. Ideal temperatures range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Nighttime temperatures should not fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Pelargonium divaricatum performs best in well-draining soil that has a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Adding organic material, such as peat moss or perlite, to the soil can improve drainage. The plant does not tolerate soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Pelargonium divaricatum is a hardy plant that thrives in a range of soil types, provided that they are well-draining. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. For outdoor cultivation, plant in a spot that receives partial shade to full sun.
Propagate Pelargonium divaricatum through stem cuttings or seeds. For stem cuttings, take stem cuttings in spring and root them in a mixture of potting soil and perlite in a container. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm spot until roots develop.
For seeding, plant seeds in warm soil in spring and keep the soil moist. Germination can take between one and three weeks.
Watering Needs
Pelargonium divaricatum prefers to be watered regularly but not excessively. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot or other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release fertilizer to Pelargonium divaricatum every six months. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, apply a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Prune Pelargonium divaricatum regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Pinch back the tips of the stems to promote branching. Remove any yellow or dead leaves as soon as possible.
Propagation of Pelargonium divaricatum (Thunb.) DC.
Pelargonium divaricatum can be propagated through various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the simplest and most commonly used method of propagating Pelargonium divaricatum. The seeds are usually sown in spring or early summer. The process involves soaking the seeds in warm water for twenty-four hours before sowing. The seeds are usually sown in seed trays containing a well-draining soil mix, covered lightly with soil, and then kept moist until germination occurs. Germination can take up to four weeks, and the seedlings are usually transplanted into small pots before being transferred into the ground.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another way to propagate Pelargonium divaricatum. The process involves taking a stem cutting that is about ten centimeters long, stripping the lower leaves, and then dipping the cut end in a rooting hormone powder. Afterward, the cutting is usually placed in a well-draining propagating mix that is moist but not wet. The cutting is then left to develop roots for about six weeks in a humid environment. Eventually, once roots have developed, the cutting can be relocated to a small pot before being planted.
Division Propagation
Division is also another method of propagating Pelargonium divaricatum. This process involves dividing an existing plant into smaller sections, which can then be planted elsewhere. The ideal time for division is during the spring when the plant begins to grow actively. Once dug up, the root ball can be divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system and shoots. These sections are then planted individually in suitable locations.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a more complicated method of propagating Pelargonium divaricatum. It is usually used when attempting to grow a variety that does not root easily from cuttings. The process involves taking a cutting from the desired plant variety and attaching it to a rootstock of a closely related, but more readily propagated, Pelargonium. With time, the cutting becomes grafted onto the rootstock, and a new plant is formed.
Overall, these are some of the methods that can be used to propagate Pelargonium divaricatum.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium divaricatum
Pelargonium divaricatum is a popular ornamental plant with beautiful flowers and is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Therefore, proper management is necessary to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
1. Botrytis Blight: Pelargonium divaricatum can be affected by Botrytis cinerea, a fungal disease that causes the plant's leaves and flowers to wilt. The disease thrives in moist conditions and can spread quickly. To manage it, growers should avoid overhead watering and ensure proper ventilation around the plant. The infected parts of the plant should be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Chemical fungicides can also be applied.
2. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease characterized by white powdery spots on the leaves and stems. It can be caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, or overwatering. To manage powdery mildew, growers should ensure proper ventilation and avoid wetting the leaves of the plant. Infected parts should be pruned and destroyed. Fungicides can be applied, but prevention is key.
3. Bacterial Wilt: Bacterial wilt causes the plant to wilt and die suddenly. It is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum and can spread quickly through water, soil, and infected plants. To manage bacterial wilt, growers should avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and avoid using contaminated tools. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, growers can increase the humidity around the plant, prune the infected parts, and use chemical insecticides if necessary.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. To manage mealybugs, growers can wash the affected plants with water, prune the infected parts, and use chemical insecticides if necessary.
3. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant's sap and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. This attracts ants and can cause the plant to become weak and stunted. To manage aphids, growers can wash the affected plants with water, prune the infected parts, and use chemical insecticides if necessary.
Overall, disease and pest management for Pelargonium divaricatum involves maintaining proper environmental conditions, promptly pruning and destroying infected parts, and using chemical remedies only as a last resort. With these steps, growers can keep their Pelargonium divaricatum plants healthy and thriving.
