Geranium maculatum aka Spotted Geranium
Taxonomy
Common names
Spotted Geranium, Wild Crane's Bill, Wild Geranium, Spotted Crane's BillHow to care for Spotted Geranium
Difficulty
Caring for Spotted Geranium is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Spotted Geranium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
When growing Spotted Geranium, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Wild Geranium with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Spotted Geranium from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Wild Crane's Bill regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Spotted Geranium will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.
Lighting
Spotted Geranium requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Wild Crane's Bill is always in the right place to thrive.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Spotted Geranium should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Spotted Geranium as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Spotted Geranium’s native range is Eastern N. America - Maine to Georgia, west to Arkansas, Kansas and Manitoba.
More info:
Wikipedia