“Mexican Geranium” is a captivating perennial, celebrated for its robust nature and appealing foliage. It offers visual interest throughout the growing season, from fresh spring growth to vibrant autumn colors. Its low-maintenance requirements make it a desirable option for gardeners seeking beauty without extensive effort.
Identifying Mexican Geranium
The common name “Mexican Geranium” typically refers to Geranium wlassovianum, also known as Wlassov’s Cranesbill. This true hardy geranium is native to regions of eastern Asia, including Siberia, Mongolia, and northern China, despite its misleading common name. While Geranium mexicanum is native to Mexico, Geranium wlassovianum is more commonly cultivated under the “Mexican Geranium” moniker. It is important to distinguish true geraniums from Pelargonium species, which are often sold as “geraniums” but are botanically distinct and less cold-hardy.
Geranium wlassovianum forms a bushy, clump-forming perennial, typically reaching 18 to 24 inches in height and spread. Its lobed, downy leaves emerge reddish-purple in spring, turn dark green by summer, and display striking red and golden yellow shades in fall. The flowers are small, about 1 inch in diameter, with five petals that are dusky violet or deep purple, often featuring white centers and darker veins. These blossoms appear in loose clusters from early summer to early fall.
Planting and Growing Mexican Geranium
Geranium wlassovianum is a hardy perennial that thrives with appropriate environmental conditions. Its adaptability contributes to its ease of cultivation in various garden settings.
Light Requirements
Geranium wlassovianum performs well in full sun to partial shade. It tolerates full sun, especially in cooler climates, but benefits from afternoon shade in hotter regions to prevent stress. Consistent moisture is important when planted in direct sunlight.
Soil Preparation and Planting
This plant prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 5.8 to 6.5). It thrives in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay types. Before planting, loosening the soil is beneficial to ensure moisture and nutrients can reach the roots effectively. Early to late spring or late fall are suitable times for transplanting into well-drained soil.
Watering Needs
Geranium wlassovianum has moderate water needs, adapting to a balance between moisture and dryness. It requires consistent watering, typically once every 1-2 weeks. During its active growing season, the soil should remain slightly moist. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root issues. Checking the soil’s moisture level by hand can help determine when watering is necessary.
Temperature and Hardiness
This hardy perennial is suited for USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9. It tolerates temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. In seasons where temperatures drop below 4 degrees Celsius, moving potted plants indoors can be beneficial.
Fertilizing
Geranium wlassovianum benefits from sufficient nutrients. In addition to a base fertilizer applied during planting, supplementary fertilization is recommended. The most suitable time for additional feeding is during the plant’s rapid growth period in spring, with top-dressing applied one to two times. For outdoor plants, a slow-release fertilizer helps prevent nutrient dilution from heavy rainfall.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Maintaining Mexican Geraniums involves routine tasks to ensure their continued health and vigorous growth. These practices help the plants remain attractive and productive throughout their lifespan. Proper care contributes to the plant’s resilience against common garden challenges.
Pruning
Pruning Geranium wlassovianum in early spring promotes healthier growth and abundant blooms. Remove dead or damaged stems and thin crowded areas to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk. Lightly trimming after summer flowering can encourage a second bloom. In late fall or early winter, cut back perennial geraniums to a few inches above the soil to store energy for spring and maintain shape.
Pest and Disease Management
Geranium wlassovianum is generally pest and disease-free, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. However, it can occasionally encounter issues. General issues for geraniums can include aphids and slugs, and diseases like powdery mildew. Maintaining good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning helps prevent fungal problems.
Winter Care
As a hardy perennial, Geranium wlassovianum is typically left in the ground over winter in its hardiness zones. The deciduous foliage dies back, turning vibrant red and golden yellow in autumn before fading. In colder climates, a layer of mulch can provide additional insulation for the roots. For plants in marginal zones or containers, move them indoors to a cool, bright location with minimal watering for survival.
Propagating Mexican Geranium
Propagating Geranium wlassovianum allows gardeners to easily expand their collection or share plants. Several methods are effective for increasing the number of these appealing perennials.
Division
Division is a straightforward method for propagating clump-forming hardy geraniums. This can be done during the dormant period, typically from autumn through spring, after the foliage has died back. Dig up the clump and carefully separate it into smaller pieces using a sharp spade or knife, ensuring each division has roots and shoots. Replant these sections directly into the garden or pot them for later transplanting.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another viable propagation method for Geranium wlassovianum. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and take cuttings approximately 3-6 cm long just below a node. Removing lower leaves and any flowers or buds from the cutting helps the plant focus energy on root development. Place cuttings in a moist, well-draining rooting medium with ample light and humidity to encourage successful rooting.
Seed
Geranium wlassovianum can also be grown from seed. Sow seeds outdoors in late fall to midwinter for cold stratification, or indoors in pots with gritty compost. Germination can be variable, sometimes taking several weeks or longer. Provide consistent moisture and avoid direct, intense sunlight to support seedling development.