Armenian Cranesbill Geranium psilostemon
ABOUT
Geranium psilostemon, commonly known as Armenian cranesbill, is a perennial plant that is widely recognized for its striking and vibrant display of flowers and foliage. The flowers are particularly eye-catching, boasting a brilliant magenta color with black star-shaped centers and prominent veining, which creates a bold contrast. These blooms are rounded in shape, consisting of five petals, and present themselves in clusters atop the stems, making them very noticeable in any garden setting. The foliage of the Armenian cranesbill is equally attractive, composed of large, lobed leaves that have a hairy texture. The leaves are deeply cut into pointed segments, and during the growing season, they maintain a lush green color. In the fall, the leaves often change to provide a display of autumnal hues, adding a different dimension of interest to the plant. The Armenian cranesbill has a bushy habit, with the stems and leaves forming a mound-like shape that spreads outwards. The stems are sturdy and hold the flowers well above the foliage, allowing them to dance lightly in the breeze. This robust nature makes the plant both a focal point in a border and an excellent ground cover, as it creates a dense cover that can help suppress weeds. The overall appearance of the Armenian cranesbill is one of vigor and vivaciousness, and it has a long blooming period which extends through the summer months, often into the fall. This resilience and the long-lasting display of colorful blooms make the Armenian cranesbill a favorite among garden enthusiasts who wish to add a splash of color and lively texture to their garden landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Armenian Cranesbill, Turkish Pelargonium
Common names
Geranium armenum, Geranium psilostemon var. armenum, Geranium psilostemon var. psilostemon.
ToxicityTo humans
Armenian cranesbill, also known as Geranium psilostemon, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. This means that ingesting parts of the plant typically does not result in poisoning or serious health consequences. However, as with any plant material, individual reactions can vary and it's best to avoid eating any part of ornamental plants. If someone were to ingest a large quantity or have a sensitivity, they might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, but severe toxicity is unlikely.
To pets
For pets, Armenian cranesbill is also not known to be toxic. It is generally safe around common household pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet were to consume a piece of this plant, they would likely not suffer from poisoning. As with humans, ingestion could theoretically lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in certain pets, particularly if they ingest a large amount, but the plant is not expected to cause serious harm or toxic effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Magenta
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
1.5 feet (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Armenia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Geranium psilostemon is known for its striking magenta flowers with black centers, which add vibrant color to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is fairly easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soils, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the geranium are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Geranium psilostemon has a good tolerance for brief periods of drought, making it a suitable choice for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Long Flowering Season: It has a long blooming period that usually spans from early summer to early autumn, providing prolonged aesthetic value.
- Edging and Border Plant: Its mounding habit and colorful flowers make it a great choice for borders or edges in a garden setting.
- Cottage Garden Style: This plant is a classic choice for cottage gardens due to its informal growth habit and vibrant flowers.
- Ground Cover: Geranium psilostemon can be used as an effective ground cover for suppressing weeds and covering bare spots in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geraniums can be used to create natural dyes. The petals of Geranium psilostemon provide a range of colors when used in fabric dyeing, often resulting in vibrant pink and purple hues.
- The fragrance of geranium leaves is used in aromatherapy and as an ingredient in some perfumes. Geranium psilostemon has a rich and uplifting scent that can be incorporated into these products.
- Geraniums are popular in the culinary world where the petals are sometimes used to flavor sugars, cakes, and jellies. The edible flowers of Geranium psilostemon can add a splash of color and a subtle taste to desserts.
- As companion plants in the garden, geraniums are said to repel certain types of insects. Planting Geranium psilostemon among vegetables may help deter pests from more susceptible crops.
- The large, attractive leaves of Geranium psilostemon are sometimes used in floral arrangements to provide a contrast of shape and color.
- In some cultures, the vibrant flowers of geraniums are used in celebrations and ceremonies. For example, Geranium psilostemon might be included in wedding decorations for its bright appearance and symbolism of happiness.
- Geraniums can be pressed and preserved in books or frames as a method of botanical documentation or to create natural art pieces. The distinct leaves and flowers of Geranium psilostemon make it a good candidate for this use.
- Artists may use geranium plants as a subject for botanical illustration or photography, capturing the distinct features of Geranium psilostemon with its striking magenta flowers.
- Some gardeners use geranium leaves in potpourri mixes. The fragrant leaves of Geranium psilostemon can add a unique aroma to the mix.
- The plant’s natural form and growth habit make Geranium psilostemon a popular choice for bonsai, allowing enthusiasts to train and prune the plant into miniature landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Armenian Cranesbill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Armenian Cranesbill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unity: The geranium psilostemon, also commonly known as Armenian cranesbill, often symbolizes unity because of the way its petals are united at the base, signifying togetherness and connection.
- Friendship: In the language of flowers, geraniums are generally associated with friendship due to their diverse and vibrant appearances, symbolizing the various kinds of friends one might have.
- Health and Healing: The Armenian cranesbill has been used in traditional medicine, which lends it the symbolic meaning of health and the healing process.
- Protection: Folklore often considers geraniums as plants that provide protection against evil spirits; thus, the Armenian cranesbill might be associated with the idea of a protective charm.
- Good Luck: With its lush and vibrant colors, the geranium psilostemon is sometimes believed to bring good fortune and positive vibes to a home or garden, symbolizing good luck.
- Sturdiness and Perseverance: Being a hardy perennial, the Armenian cranesbill represents sturdiness and the ability to withstand challenges, much like the plant's own capacity to persevere in various growing conditions.
WaterArmenian Cranesbill should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once every week or two, depending on climate conditions. The method of watering should be gentle and directed at the soil level to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. In terms of the amount, during each watering, provide enough water to soak the soil around the root zone. Approximately 1 gallon of water per week should suffice for an established plant in moderate climates, but adjust based on temperature and rainfall, as the plant may require more frequent watering in hot, dry periods.
LightArmenian Cranesbill thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for the plant would be one where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureArmenian Cranesbill prefers temperate conditions and performs well in a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range can stress the plant.
PruningPruning Armenian Cranesbill is necessary to remove dead or faded flowers and foliage, which encourages new growth and improves the plant's appearance. The best time for pruning is after the first wave of flowering has ended, typically in early to mid-summer. Prune again in late summer or early fall if necessary. To prune, cut back spent flower stems and any leggy or overgrown shoots to maintain a neat shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilArmenian Cranesbill thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining, light, and rich in organic matter with a pH range between 5.8 and 6.3. A mixture of one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or sand would be ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingArmenian Cranesbill should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish its soil and give its roots more space to grow. It's best to repot in the spring just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingArmenian Cranesbill prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. It can thrive in average room humidity levels, without the need for any special humidifying techniques.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, well-draining soil, and space 12-18" apart.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Armenian cranesbill, or Geranium psilostemon, begins its life cycle with seed germination, usually occurring in spring when soil temperatures rise sufficiently. Seedlings emerge and grow into rosette-forming juveniles, developing their distinctive deeply lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it establishes itself, growing larger and producing more leafy growth. Following vegetative growth, the Armenian cranesbill enters the flowering stage in late spring or early summer, showcasing its vivid magenta flowers with black star-shaped centers, which attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules, which contain seeds that are dispersed once the capsules dehisce, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant can perennially regenerate from the rootstock each spring, allowing it to live for several years and go through multiple life cycles.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium psilostemon, commonly known as Armenian Cranesbill, is most commonly propagated by seed or by division. The most popular method is by seed, generally sown in the spring. To propagate by seed, sow them in a well-draining seed starting mix, covering the seeds lightly with the substrate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature around 70°F (approximately 21°C). Seedlings usually emerge within a few weeks. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, typically when they have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be potted on into individual pots. Gradually acclimatize them to outdoor conditions before planting them out in their final positions in the garden after the risk of frost has passed.
