Origin
The Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren, commonly called the Cape May, originates from the Western Cape province of South Africa.
Common Names
The Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata has various common names including Cape May, Silver-bush, Silver Storm, Silver Pelargonium, Silverleaf, and Rock Pelargonium.
Uses
The Silver Storm plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its small and pretty silver-grey leaves that stay on the plant all year. Its beautiful appearance makes it an excellent choice for a garden or container plant, especially when planted en masse to create an interesting landscape. Additionally, its small, delicate flowers, which range in colors from white to pink, bloom in the late winter or early spring bringing an extra beauty to the garden.
General Appearance
The Silver-bush plant is a slow-growing, spreading, and compact evergreen shrub that can grow up to 30 centimeters tall and spread up to 60 centimeters wide. It has silver-grey leaves that are small, rounded, and covered with fine hairs, which gives them a delicate look and a soft texture. The flowers of the Cape May are small, measuring up to 1.5 centimeters in diameter, and grow in clusters on the ends of the branches. The petals are generally white or pink with darker markings towards the base of each petal. The plant generally has no major pest or disease problems.
Growth Conditions for Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren, commonly known as silver carpet, is a low growing shrub that is native to South Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its silver-grey leaves and pink flowers.
Light Requirements
The silver carpet plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Areas with inadequate sunlight can cause the plant to grow leggy and weak, reducing its ornamental value.
Temperature Requirements
Silver carpet plants prefer warm temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. They are not tolerant of frost and require protection during cold months. It is important to note that excessive heat, especially in dry environments, can injure the plant. Therefore, it is best to avoid exposing it to direct, intense sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The silver carpet plant grows best in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. It is important to avoid water-logged soil as it can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil to improve water retention and fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren is a shrub that is naturally found in rocky areas of South Africa. It can be cultivated in a variety of soil types, but well-drained and slightly acidic soil is ideal. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, but it is important to protect it from frost during the winter months.
Watering Needs
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren does not require a lot of water and is drought-tolerant. However, it is important to maintain consistent moisture during the establishment period. Once established, the plant can survive on rainfall alone, but occasional watering during prolonged dry periods can be beneficial. Overwatering should be avoided, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren, as it can grow in poor soil. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth and flowering. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata (Eckl. & Zeyh. ex A.DC. & ) R.Dahlgren requires minimal pruning. Dead or damaged branches can be removed at any time of year. Light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering in the following season.
Propagation of Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The plant produces small seeds that can be sown in the spring or fall. It is recommended to soak the seeds for 24 hours before sowing to help with germination. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. Germination can take up to 6 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in the summer. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood and should be around 8cm in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. Rooting can take up to 6 weeks.
Propagation through Division
The plant can be divided in the spring. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata is susceptible to several diseases. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Leaf spot diseases
The fungal diseases that cause leaf spot can cause leaf discoloration and spotting. Prune out the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Applying copper-based fungicides can also help.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is caused by a fungus that results in leaf spotting, wilting and blistering. Clean up any fallen leaves around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Use a copper-based fungicide to prevent infection.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by fungi that attack the roots. Symptoms include yellowing foliage and wilting, which don't improve even with watering. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and keep the soil well-drained. In the case of infection, remove the affected plant and the surrounding soil.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may attack Penaea cneorum Meerb. subsp. ovata and ways to manage them:
Spider mites
Spider mites are arachnids that feed on plant juices, causing yellowing and foliage loss. Use a water spray or insecticidal soap to frequently clean the foliage to prevent an infestation. Alternatively, apply miticidal or insecticidal sprays.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars usually eat the leaves and can cause extensive damage. Remove them by hand or prune the affected leaves. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray to control caterpillars if the infestation is severe.
Scale insects
Scale insects suck plant sap which can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. These insects also excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. Prune off the affected branches and apply insecticidal soap or alcohol to control the spread.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that feed on sap and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Monitor the plant for an infestation and spray with insecticidal soap. Alternatively, apply neem oil or a solution of 1 part rubbing alcohol and 3 parts water.
