Plant Description:
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken is a member of the Geraniaceae family and is commonly known as the smooth pelargonium. It is a small, perennial shrub that grows up to 40-80 cm tall and spreads mainly through root suckers. The stems are hairy and woody at the base, becoming green and succulent higher up, with leaves that are smooth and shiny, and deeply lobed with toothed edges. The flowers are produced in small clusters, with 5 pink or purple petals, and a spur that is slightly bent towards the back. The plant blooms from spring to summer and is drought-tolerant.
Origin:
The Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken is native to the southwestern Cape of South Africa. It is a common plant in the arid and semi-arid regions of the region, where it grows in rocky areas, on slopes, and alongside roads.
Common Names:
The Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken is commonly known as the smooth pelargonium, smooth-leaved pelargonium, or suikerbossie in Afrikaans, a language spoken in South Africa.
Uses:
The Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken has a long history of medicinal uses. The plant has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, and its roots, leaves, and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections, coughs, and colds. The plant is also used as a poultice and infusion to treat wounds, cuts, and bruises. In addition, the plant is used in horticulture as an ornamental plant for its attractive pink or purple flowers and drought-tolerant nature.
Light Conditions
Pelargonium laevigatum subsp. oxyphyllum prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate a few hours of shade but requires plenty of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and temperate climates with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. During the winter dormancy period, the temperature should fluctuate between 5°C and 10°C to promote healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in a well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. It can tolerate a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5, but a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 is optimal. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve growth.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It grows best in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
It is ideal for planting in rock gardens and borders, but it can also be grown in containers, making it perfect for small gardens or balconies. The plants should be planted in the ground or containers during spring or autumn to give them enough time to settle before the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
Watering Needs
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken prefers moderate watering and requires it only when the soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot. It is recommended to use a moisture meter to check the soil's moisture level before watering. The plant should be watered slowly and deeply, making sure that all the roots are well hydrated.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. Fertilization should be stopped during winter when the plant is dormant. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken requires annual pruning to prevent it from becoming leggy. The ideal time for pruning is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms. Pinching off the tips of new growth will encourage lateral branching and promote bushy growth.
Propagation of Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken can be propagated through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds from Pelargonium laevigatum can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until germination occurs. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18-22°C. Once the plant has grown few sets of leaves, it can be transplanted into a larger container with a well fertilized soil mix.
Cuttings Propagation
Pelargonium laevigatum can be easily propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from a healthy plant during the spring and summer growing seasons. Choose cuttings that are around 5-10 cm long and free from any disease or pest damage. Strip off the leaves from the bottom part of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in moist perlite or sand and keep it in a warm, bright location. Rooting usually takes a few weeks. Once the roots are well-established, transplant the cutting in a larger container with well-draining soil mix.
DIVISION Propagation
Pelargonium laevigatum can also be propagated through division. This method is best suited for larger, more mature plants. Dig up the plant and remove the soil from around its roots. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or a knife. Each section should have a few leaves and a well-developed root system. Plant the divisions in a well-fertilized potting mix and keep the soil moist until the plants become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken
Pelargonium laevigatum (L.f.) Willd. subsp. oxyphyllum (DC.) Schonken, also known as smooth-stalked stork's bill, is a hardy plant that thrives in a wide range of conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pest infestations that can affect its growth and overall health. Proper disease and pest management can help ensure healthy plants.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases of this plant is gray mold, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. Symptoms include grayish brown spots on the leaves and flowers, as well as wilted or mushy plant tissue. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and provide good air circulation to the plant by spacing the plants adequately. Avoid overhead watering, which can contribute to moisture buildup and the spread of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used, but they should be employed only after the plant has been trimmed and pruned.
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect Pelargonium laevigatum. This disease appears as white, powdery patches on the leaves and stems. To avoid encountering this disease, ensure proper air circulation. Increasing ventilation may suffice under low humidity conditions, but reducing the leaf density of plant structures by pruning is necessary if humidity is high.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that attack Pelargonium laevigatum is spider mites. These tiny pests suck the sap from the plant tissue, causing leaves to turn yellow and become dotted with white spots. They are often present in hot and dry weather conditions. To manage this pest, boost humidity levels by frequently misting the plant’s leaves with freshwater and water sprays. Overhead watering and cleaning of dust keeping plants free from dust contribute to good management.
Aphids are another common pest that plagues Pelargonium laevigatum. These insects can cause leaves to curl and become deformed. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and have a soft body that is easily recognizable. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, employed according to guidelines on their labels.
Overall, good plant health management practices such as watering, pruning, and providing proper environment conditions will help to minimize diseases and pest infestations of Pelargonium laevigatum, making it a vibrant garden plant.
