Pelargonium oblongatum

Pelargonium oblongatum.

Family: Geraniaceae.

It  is a very singular geophyte succulent species to 30 cm tall, remarkable for the thick erect fleshy root stock (caudex) which stands several centimetres above the ground and bears leaves before the flowers appear. Like most of the tuberous species the rootstock is well protected by several layers of brown, shell-like skins. The leaves are produced in winter in a neat rosette, fairly close to the ground and scented. The flowers are large with five petals, the two upper petals are yellow or cream with red-purple feathering veins and larger than the three lower ones. The five long filaments which bear orange anthers (the pollen-bearing part of the stamen) curve nicely towards the upper petals.

Sowing: A light well-drained soil with a high content of coarse sand is ideal for seed sowing. A 100 mm deep tray with numerous drainage holes in the base should be used for sowing seeds. Prior to filling the container with growing medium, place a layer of roughage, such as small rocks, gravel or bark pieces at the bottom, this process should be followed by firming down the soil and levelling off with a plank. Soil must be slightly moist and therefore, watering is recommended. Seeds should be broadcasted evenly and covered with a thin layer of clean white sand. Depth of sowing should be restricted to one and a half times the size of the seed. Moreover, water thoroughly using a fine hose at a low pressure to prevent soil and seed wash off.

Locality: Jenkinskop. Harvest: August 2024