Kyushu geranium Geranium soboliferum var. kiusianum

Water

The Kiusianum geranium, also known as Kyushu geranium, should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic its natural environment. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, typically watering every 7 to 10 days. When you do water, use about half a gallon for a medium-sized pot to thoroughly saturate the soil. During the winter or in cooler temperatures, reduce watering to prevent root rot, as the plant’s water needs decrease with lower evaporation rates.

Light

Kiusianum geraniums thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate direct morning sun. The best spot for these plants would be in an east-facing window where they receive some direct sunlight but are protected from the harsh afternoon rays. Avoid placing them in deep shade or full, strong sun, as both can lead to poor growth and flowering.

Temperature

Kiusianum geraniums prefer moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from around 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be protected from frost, as temperatures below freezing can cause significant damage or kill the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Kiusianum geraniums is essential for promoting bushier growth and preventing legginess. Prune in the late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and stems, and cut back up to one-third of the plant to encourage a fuller shape. Deadheading spent blooms will also promote further flowering throughout the season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Kyoto Geranium prefers a well-draining soil mix composed of equal parts peat, loam, and sand to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant. Perlite or pumice can be added to enhance drainage further.

Repotting

Kyoto Geraniums should be repotted every two to three years or when they outgrow their current container. Repotting in spring is ideal, allowing the plant to establish in the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Kyoto Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, which is often present in indoor environments. However, they can tolerate lower humidity without significant adverse effects.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade with well-draining soil; protect from intense sun.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium soboliferum var. kiusianum, commonly known as the Kyushu geranium, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in spring when conditions are moist and temperatures mild. The seedlings establish roots and develop rosettes of leaves in their juvenile phase. As the plants reach maturity, they produce stems that bear distinctive lobed leaves and form flower buds. Flowering occurs in summer, showcasing small to medium-sized pink to purplish flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into beaked seed capsules, which explosively dehisce to distribute seeds, ensuring the propagation of the next generation. In fall to winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, entering a period of dormancy before the cycle restarts with the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: For Geranium soboliferum var. kiusianum, commonly known as the Kyushu geranium, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Ideally, this is done in spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. Stem cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) long and include several leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. Good indirect light is essential, but direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent scorching. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to its permanent growing conditions.