Overview of Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers.
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. is a species of flowering plant in the Geraniaceae family. It is a succulent perennial subshrub that is native to South Africa. The plant has a wide range of uses and has gained popularity in recent years as a garden plant. It has several common names, including Selinum-Scented Pelargonium, Whorled-Leaved Geranium, and Black Stemmed Geranium.
General Appearance of Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers.
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. has thin, woody stems that grow up to 30 cm tall and produce small, whorled leaves. The plant has a spreading growth habit and typically reaches a width of 30 to 60 cm. The leaves are dark green in color, with a glossy appearance. The plant produces small, pale pink flowers that bloom in spring and summer. It has a distinct aromatic scent that is similar to that of celery or parsley.
Uses of Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers.
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional South African medicine. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. It is also used as an ingredient in perfumes and soaps due to its distinctive scent. In addition, Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. is valued as an ornamental plant, particularly for its attractive leaves and fragrant flowers. It is commonly grown in gardens and as a potted plant indoors or on balconies.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. thrives in areas with abundant sunlight. Therefore, it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. If grown in an area with insufficient sunlight, it may produce sparse flowering and pale leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 60 - 85°F to grow optimally. It can still grow in temperatures as low as 40°F, but it may impair its growth rate. On the other hand, temperatures higher than 85°F can cause dehydration and wilting, which can negatively affect the growth of the plant. Consistent temperatures around 70°F are ideal for the plant’s growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained and nutrient-rich soil. It needs soil that is slightly acidic, usually with a pH of 6.5. The best soil to use is a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite in equal amounts. The drainage system should be excellent to prevent waterlogging, as the plant can easily develop root rot in such conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. is a plant that thrives well in warm temperatures, between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). It requires well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. When planting the Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum, ensure a distance of about one-foot apart. This variety does well in full sun, in a south-facing window or outdoors where there is direct sunlight for at least six hours.
Watering Needs
Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum requires consistent watering, but the soil must not be overly moist. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which could kill the plant. It is advisable to allow the top inch of the soil to dry before watering. A good practice is to an inch of water each week to maintain the right moisture level. Ensure to use warm water when watering the plant, as cold water may shock the plant roots.
Fertilization
For Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum to flower adequately, it requires a regular feeding schedule. Apply a slow-release fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus, every three to four weeks in spring and summer. A balanced water-soluble fertilizer may also be appropriate and could be applied at the same time.
Pruning
The best time to prune Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum is after flowering. Use sterilized pruning shears and cut off spent blooms and straggly, yellowing stems. Ensure to cut off a third of the long, healthy stems leaving enough leaves for it to continue to photosynthesize. Trimming back the plant will promote bushiness and ensure that the plant will continue to produce beautiful, healthy flowers.
Propagation of Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum
Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum, also known as the parsley-scented geranium, can be propagated using various methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum can be sown in well-draining soil mix after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds can be sown in small pots or trays and covered lightly with soil. The pots or trays should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum can be taken during the growing season. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node. Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. The cutting can then be inserted into a well-draining soil mix or a container of water. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and mist it regularly to keep the leaves from drying out. Once the roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into a pot or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
Pelargonium rapaceum var. selinum can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring when new growth begins to emerge. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the roots and stems, making sure that each division has some roots and foliage. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil mix and keep them well-watered until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers.
Pelargonium rapaceum (L.) L'Hér. var. selinum (Andrews) Pers. commonly known as wild celery-leaved pelargonium, belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is a perennial herb that is generally valued for its attractive flowers and fragrant leaves. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Pelargonium rapaceum and their management methods.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Pelargonium rapaceum is powdery mildew. It is caused by the fungal species Erysiphe cichoracearum and can lead to a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, you can spray the affected plants with a fungicide containing sulfur, neem oil, and potassium bicarbonate. Remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of disease.
Botrytis blight is another disease that can affect Pelargonium rapaceum. It is caused by the fungal species Botrytis cinerea and can lead to the appearance of web-like grayish mold on the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and flowers immediately to prevent spread and ensure proper airflow and light around the plant.
Pests
Aphids are one of the most common pests that can affect Pelargonium rapaceum. They can cause yellow spots and deformities on the leaves and stems of the plant and can also transmit viral diseases. To manage this pest, you can spray the affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings into the garden to control the aphid population.
Spider mites are another common pest that can affect Pelargonium rapaceum. They can cause spots and yellowing on the leaves and also leave behind fine webbing. To manage this pest, you can spray the affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly or placing a tray of water near the plant.
In conclusion, to ensure healthy growth and blooming of Pelargonium rapaceum, it is crucial to protect it from common diseases and pests by following the appropriate management methods.
