Bloody Cranesbill Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth'
ABOUT
The Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth', commonly known as the bloody cranesbill or hardy geranium 'Elsbeth', is a perennial plant known for its ornamental qualities. This particular cultivar boasts a profuse bloom of vivid magenta-pink flowers that create a striking contrast against the foliage. Each rounded flower possesses a slightly cupped shape, with five broad petals radiating outward from a central core of protruding stamen, which give a delicate and frilly appearance. The leaves of 'Elsbeth' are deeply lobed, forming a palmate shape that is both intricate and lacy. Their color is a rich, green hue that may turn reddish in the fall, adding a layer of seasonal interest to the plant. The texture of the leaves is slightly coarse, giving the plant a robust presence in the garden. Overall, 'Elsbeth' exudes an air of classic cottage charm and can be used to add a pop of color in border fronts, rock gardens, or as ground cover.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Bloody Cranesbill, Bloody Geranium
Common names
Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Bloody Cranesbill, as Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth' is commonly known, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant, which means that if consumed, it is unlikely to cause harm. However, it is always prudent to avoid eating plants not specifically grown for consumption to prevent any unexpected allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset.
To pets
Bloody Cranesbill is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. It does not contain known toxic compounds that would typically harm animals if ingested. As with humans, pets are unlikely to suffer from poisoning after consuming parts of this plant. Nevertheless, it is still a good idea to monitor pets around plants and prevent them from ingesting large quantities, as individual animals might have unique sensitivities, which could result in mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth' offers brightly colored pink to magenta flowers that add visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy Maintenance: It is known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Drought Tolerance: This plant is fairly drought-tolerant, which makes it suitable for xeriscaping and in areas with water restrictions.
- Rapid Growth: The plant tends to grow quickly, filling in garden spaces and providing ground cover.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of many ecosystems.
- Deer Resistance: It is generally resistant to deer, making it suitable for gardens in areas with a high deer population.
- Seasonal Interest: With a long blooming season, it provides garden interest from late spring to early fall.
- Versatility: This plant is versatile and can be used in rock gardens, borders, or as edging plants.
- Soil Adaptability: It can adapt to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth', commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, may contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects.
- Astringent: The plant has been traditionally used for its astringent properties, which may help in toning tissues and reducing bleeding.
- Diuretic: It may have diuretic properties that promote the excretion of urine.
- Antibacterial: Components in Bloody Cranesbill might exhibit antibacterial activity against certain bacteria.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye production: The Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth', commonly known as Bloody Crane's-bill, can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, with variations in color depending on the mordant used.
- Garden border aesthetics: The vibrant color and dense foliage of Bloody Crane's-bill make it an excellent choice for creating striking garden borders.
- Potpourri ingredient: The leaves and petals of the Bloody Crane's-bill can be dried and added to potpourri mixes for a pleasant fragrance.
- Insect-repelling properties: Some gardeners plant Bloody Crane's-bill among vegetables and herbs as a companion plant to deter pests.
- Photography subject: Due to their striking appearance, these flowers are often sought after by photographers looking for natural subjects with vivid colors.
- Stabilizing soil: The root system of Bloody Crane's-bill can help to prevent soil erosion in areas susceptible to washout.
- Culinary garnish: While not commonly used, the bright blossoms can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- Arts and crafts: Dried petals and leaves of the Bloody Crane's-bill can be incorporated into paper-making or used for botanical prints.
- Plant symbolism: In the language of flowers, the Bloody Crane's-bill can symbolize steadfastness and determination, making it an interesting plant to give as a gift.
- Education and research: This plant can be used for educational purposes to study plant growth patterns, pollinator interactions, and botany.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cranesbill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cranesbill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Health: Geraniums are often associated with health and vitality, representing the maintenance of good health.
- Friendship: The geranium is a symbol of friendship and positive relationships, reflecting the plant's inviting appearance.
- Happiness: Known for their colorful flowers, geraniums symbolize happiness and good spirits.
- Fertility: Historically, the geranium represents fertility and the creation of new life, due to its abundant growth.
- Harmony: The plant is also seen as a symbol of harmony and balance, possibly due to its visually balanced shape and form.
WaterCranesbill should be watered regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In general, watering deeply once a week with about one inch of water is appropriate, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. During hot or dry spells, increase the frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely. If you’re using a container, ensure it has drainage holes and water until excess water flows from the bottom. Adjust the watering schedule during the winter months, as the plant will require less water.
LightCranesbill thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this plant would provide at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, ideally in the morning with some afternoon shade in hotter climates. Avoid deep shade as it can affect flowering and overall plant vigor. Adaptable to different light conditions, the plant can still bloom in less than ideal light, but the most prolific flowering occurs with adequate sunshine.
TemperatureCranesbill is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but performs best when the temperature is between 55°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures of around -20°F, making it suitable for many climate zones. However, extreme heat above 85°F might stress the plant, requiring additional shade or water to help it through the hotter periods.
PruningPruning cranesbill helps to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and promote more vigorous flowering. Cut back the plant after the first flush of blooms has finished to stimulate a second bloom cycle. Pruning is best done in late summer or early fall. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems as needed to keep the plant healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Bloody Cranesbill 'Elsbeth' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.3. A good soil mix for this plant can be made of one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage.
RepottingBloody Cranesbill 'Elsbeth' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current container. To avoid disrupting its growth, the best time to repot is in the spring just before active growth resumes.
Humidity & MistingBloody Cranesbill 'Elsbeth' thrives in average room humidity levels. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in typical home or garden conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth', commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill 'Elsbeth', begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination develops a primary root and shoot. The shoot grows into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, and the root establishes a strong foundation in the soil. Over time, the plant develops a robust root system and erect stems bearing deeply lobed, green leaves. During its flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, the plant produces vivid magenta-pink flowers with rounded petals that attract pollinators. After fertilization, the flowers develop into beak-like seed capsules, which when ripe, burst open to disperse seeds, ensuring propagation. Throughout the growing season, the plant will continue to produce flowers and seeds, and enter a period of dormancy in the winter, to emerge again the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium sanguineum 'Elsbeth', commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill 'Elsbeth', can be propagated most effectively through division. This method is generally best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring to preserve as much of the root system as possible. The clump should be gently separated into smaller sections, each with a good root structure and several shoots. These divided sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing originally, spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. After planting, water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward process is ideal for expanding your garden or sharing the plant with fellow gardeners.
