Clammy Geranium
geranium viscosissimum
Also known as: ["Clammy Geranium","Sticky Geranium"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its sticky, glandular hairs and pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Geranium |
| Botanical Name: | Geranium viscosissimum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; lightly prune after flowering
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, 6.0–7.0
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lockout; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root growth
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death; frost is lethal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in fall; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Geranium viscosissimum may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's compounds can cause discomfort but are not typically severe enough to cause serious harm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Geranium viscosissimum by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicGeranium viscosissimum contains irritant compounds that can cause mild to moderate skin irritation upon contact and gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. The plant's mucilaginous properties may contribute to mild inflammation in the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Geranium viscosissimum toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Geranium viscosissimum attract wildlife?
A: Its flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What are the common problems with Geranium viscosissimum?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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