Pelargonium Cotyledonis | Pelargonium | Geraniaceae

Origin and Habitat of Pelargonium cotyledonis

Pelargonium cotyledonis, also known as Old Father Live Forever or Hollyhock-leaved Pelargonium, is a unique succulent plant native to the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is the only member of the monotypic section Isopetalum and is considered an endangered species.

This plant grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and is sparsely branched. It is mostly leafless throughout the year, with thick, fleshy stems that store water to survive droughts. The hollyhock-shaped leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a soft, velvety texture.

In the summer months, Pelargonium cotyledonis produces clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers on long, thin stems. These flowers are pollinated by insects and develop into small, dry fruits containing seeds.

Pelargonium cotyledonis is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, but protection from intense heat and direct sunlight is necessary. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in mild climates.

If you're looking for a unique and interesting succulent to add to your collection, Pelargonium cotyledonis is definitely worth considering. Its unusual appearance and easy care make it a great choice for both novice and experienced succulent growers.

Description of Pelargonium cotyledonis

Pelargonium cotyledonis, commonly known as the Old Father Live Forever, is a unique succulent plant native to the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is the only member of the monotypic section Isopetalum and is considered an endangered species.

This plant grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and is sparsely branched. It is mostly leafless throughout the year, but during the growing season, it produces grayish hollyhock-like leaves covered in fine hairs. These deeply lobed leaves can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.

Pelargonium cotyledonis is a deciduous plant, meaning it loses its leaves during the dry season. However, it produces beautiful white flowers that bloom in the summer months. These small flowers, measuring about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, create a stunning display.

As a succulent, Pelargonium cotyledonis is adapted to survive in arid conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. It is also easy to propagate from stem cuttings.

If you're looking for a unique and low-maintenance succulent to add to your collection, Pelargonium cotyledonis is an excellent choice. Its unusual appearance and fascinating life cycle make it a conversation starter, and its adaptability makes it an excellent addition to any garden.

Care for Pelargonium cotyledonis

Pelargonium cotyledonis, commonly known as Old Father Live Forever or Hollyhock-leaved Pelargonium, is a succulent plant native to the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is the sole member of the monotypic section Isopetalum and is considered endangered due to habitat loss.

This plant grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and is sparsely branched. It is mostly leafless throughout the year, but during the growing season, it produces grayish-green hollyhock-like leaves covered in fine hairs. The flowers are white and appear in the summer months.

Pelargonium cotyledonis is a semisucculent subshrub that primarily grows in the seasonally dry tropical biome. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.

Propagation of Pelargonium cotyledonis is done through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season and allowed to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. The plant can also be propagated through seeds, which should be sown in the spring.

Pelargonium cotyledonis is a beautiful and unique succulent that is perfect for xeriscaping and rock gardens. Its hollyhock-like leaves and white flowers make it a standout in any garden. With proper care and propagation, this plant can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Propagation of Pelargonium cotyledonis

Pelargonium cotyledonis, also known as Old Father Live Forever or Hollyhock-leaved Pelargonium, is a unique succulent native to the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is the only member of monotypic section Isopetalum and is considered an endangered species.

This sparsely branched succulent can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and is mostly leafless throughout the year. It has grayish leaves covered in fine hairs, making it distinct from other succulents. Pelargonium cotyledonis is a deciduous plant that produces white flowers, adding to its beauty.

When caring for Pelargonium cotyledonis, it is important to note that it is a semisucculent subshrub that primarily grows in the seasonally dry tropical biome. It requires well-draining soil and moderate watering during the growing season, but should be kept dry during the dormant season. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds.

If you're looking to add a unique and rare succulent to your collection, Pelargonium cotyledonis is definitely worth considering. Its striking appearance and easy care make it a great addition to any succulent garden.