Overview of Pelargonium scabrum var. balsameum
Pelargonium scabrum var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. is a member of the Geraniaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Eastern Cape Province.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the “Balsam-scented Pelargonium” or “Musk-scented Pelargonium”. The Zulu people of South Africa call it “umzane” or “umhlahlankosi” which translates to “tree of the old chief” in English.
Appearance
Pelargonium scabrum var. balsameum is a small, woody shrub that typically grows up to 60 cm in height. It has a highly branched stem with greyish-brown bark. The leaves are leathery and have a bright green colour with a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are small and clustered at the end of the branches. They are pink or white in colour and have a sweet musky fragrance.
Uses
The plant is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and fragrant flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections, rashes, and insect bites. The Zulu people use the leaves to treat respiratory problems such as coughs and colds. The plant has also been used to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
Furthermore, Pelargonium scabrum var. balsameum is used in perfumery and aromatherapy to create essential oils with a sweet musky scent. These oils are also used to add fragrance to soaps, creams, and other cosmetic products.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium scabrum var. balsameum grows best in full sunlight. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, it can also tolerate partial shade but this will affect its growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures. It grows well in average temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (23°C). During winter, it requires cooler temperatures of below 60°F (15.5°C) to encourage dormancy. Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can cause heat stress which will stunt its growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It requires soils that have good moisture-retention capacity, but it cannot tolerate water-logged soils. The recommended soil media for the plant is a mixture of well-drained soil, sand, and perlite in equal proportions. The soil should be amended with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and nutrient content.
Cultivation Method for Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives best in sunny locations but can also tolerate partial shade. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Watering Needs for Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. requires regular watering during the growing season. It prefers to be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be reduced during the winter months, as the plant goes into dormancy.
Fertilization of Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizing should be reduced during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning of Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. can be pruned after the blooming period to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Deadheading spent flowers can also help to prolong the blooming period. Pinching back the tips of the plant can stimulate branching, resulting in a fuller plant.
Propagation of Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv., commonly known as Balsam-scented Pelargonium, is typically propagated by seeds, cuttings or division.
Propagation by Seeds
The plant seeds should be sown during spring or early summer when the soil temperatures are at least 18°C. The process involves scattering the seeds on the surface of the soil and covering them with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be kept moist and well-drained until germination, which usually takes around two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are generally taken in late spring or early summer. The process involves selecting healthy stem tips that are around 7-10 cm long and removing the lower leaves below the node. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for several hours before being dipped in rooting hormone and planted into a well-drained soil mix. The cuttings should then be kept in a warm and humid environment until roots form.
Propagation by Division
Division is an effective way to propagate Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. In spring, the mature plants can be lifted and divided by carefully pulling or cutting the plant into sections with a sharp knife. The sections should be replanted into well-drained soil mix and watered thoroughly.
Common Diseases of Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. is susceptible to various fungal diseases. Some of the common ones include:
- Botrytis blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, which leads to the development of grayish mold on the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, infected parts of the plant should be removed, and the plant should be kept dry as much as possible. Fungicides like Chlorothalonil and Thiophanate-methyl can also be applied as preventive measures.
- Leaf spot: The fungus Alternaria pelargonii causes this disease, leading to the development of small, circular, water-soaked lesions on the leaves. The affected leaves eventually turn brown and dry out. Sanitation practices like removing the infected leaves and stem debris, as well as the application of fungicides like Chlorothalonil, can help manage this disease.
- Pythium root rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Pythium sp., leading to the development of root rot, stunted growth, and wilting. To manage this disease, it is essential to prevent overwatering, maintain proper drainage, and apply fungicides like Metalaxyl or Fenamidone to infected plants.
Common Pests of Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv.
Pelargonium scabrum (L.) L'Hér. var. balsameum (Jacq.) Harv. is also susceptible to insect pests. Some of the common ones include:
- Aphids: These are tiny, soft-bodied insects that usually appear in colonies on the leaves and stems. They suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformation of leaves. Aphids can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These are small, slender insects that feed on the plant's flowers and leaves. They cause the leaves to turn brown and develop silver-white patches. Thrips can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, leading to yellowing and wilting. They usually thrive in hot and dry conditions. Spider mites can be managed by increasing humidity levels around the plant, washing the leaves with water, and using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
