Crane's Bill Geranium soboliferum Cally strain
ABOUT
The Geranium soboliferum Cally strain, commonly known as cranesbill, presents a delightful display in gardens and containers. This plant typically bears five-petaled flowers that showcase an eye-catching shade, which often varies from pale to more vibrant tones. The blossoms are known for their rounded shape and the distinctive veining that adds texture and contrast to the petals. The leaves of the cranesbill are equally ornamental, contributing to the overall lush appearance of the plant. They are usually green, sometimes with a hint of other colors depending on the variety, and have a lobed or cut nature that makes them resemble the bill of a crane, hence its common name. The foliage may turn into striking hues with the changing seasons, which adds an extra layer of visual interest to the garden. The overall habit of the plant is one that spreads, allowing it to fill spaces with its attractive leaves and flowers. The stems are sturdy and bear both the blooms and the foliage, providing a base for the plant's visual display. Cranesbill roots are known for being hardy, which allows the plant to thrive in a variety of soil types, further enhancing its appeal to gardeners. In a natural setting, it creates a pleasing ground cover or edging plant that complements other garden flora.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Soboliferum Geranium, Cally Geranium
Common names
Geranium soboliferum Cally strain.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, commonly referred to as Hardy Geranium, is not known to be toxic to humans. Typically, ingestion of the Hardy Geranium does not lead to poisoning or severe adverse health effects. Consequently, if ingested, it is unlikely to cause serious consequences or symptoms indicative of poisoning.
To pets
Similarly, the Hardy Geranium is also considered non-toxic to pets. This means that it generally does not result in poisoning if ingested by animals such as dogs and cats. Thus, the consumption of any part of this plant is not expected to cause significant toxicity or harmful consequences for pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Geraniums are popular for their attractive foliage and brightly colored flowers, which add visual appeal to gardens and landscaping.
- Drought Tolerance: Geraniums are known for their ability to withstand dry conditions, making them suitable for water-efficient gardens.
- Low Maintenance: They generally require minimal care and can thrive with basic gardening practices, reducing the need for frequent attention.
- Pest Resistance: Some geranium varieties are resistant to common garden pests, helping to keep the garden healthy without the need for pesticides.
- Soil Adaptability: They can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay, making them versatile for different garden conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: Geraniums often have a prolonged blooming period, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended time.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Container Gardening: Geraniums are well-suited for pots and containers, making them a great choice for patios, balconies, and indoor settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geranium soboliferum, commonly known as Hardy geranium, can be used as a natural dye, producing a variety of shades depending on the mordant used in the dyeing process.
- The plant can serve as a ground cover in landscaping, due to its dense foliage and ability to spread, it can act as a living mulch and suppress weeds.
- Its flowers can be used in culinary applications, such as garnishing desserts or salads, adding a splash of color and a mild flavor to dishes.
- The essential oils extracted from Hardy geranium can be used in aromatherapy or as natural fragrances for homemade cosmetics and soaps.
- The plant's presence can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to gardens, supporting local biodiversity and pollination.
- The leaves of the Hardy geranium can be steeped in water to create a fragrant rinse for linens and laundry that imparts a fresh, herbal scent.
- Dry leaves of the plant can be included in potpourri mixes due to their pleasant aroma, contributing to a natural way to scent indoor spaces.
- Young leaves of Hardy geranium might be used in small quantities in salads or as an herb, providing a unique flavoring similar to its scented relatives, though it is not commonly consumed.
- Plant enthusiasts might use Hardy geranium in terrariums or fairy gardens for its intricate foliage and ability to thrive in contained environments.
- The dense root system of Hardy geranium can help in erosion control, planting on slopes or areas prone to soil loss to enhance soil stability.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unexpected Meeting: Geranium soboliferum, commonly known as the Cranesbill geranium or Hardy geranium, sometimes symbolizes an unexpected meeting or encounter, due to its habit of popping up in unexpected places in the garden where its seeds have spread.
- True Friendship: These hardy plants can represent the durability and reliability of true friendship, reflecting the plant's ability to flourish and return year after year.
- Good Health: The geranium is often associated with good health and a wish for well-being, as these plants were historically used in herbal remedies and are robust in nature.
WaterHardy Geraniums, including the Cally strain of Geranium soboliferum, should be watered regularly, but they do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. Check the soil moisture level and water when the top inch feels dry, typically this means watering once or twice a week during active growing seasons, depending on the climate. Ensure that the plant receives consistent moisture, but be cautious not to overwater. A general rule is to provide about 1 gallon of water per square foot every week, adjusting for rainfall, to ensure healthy growth. Water thoroughly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
LightHardy Geraniums thrive in a location that provides full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for the Cally strain of Geranium soboliferum would be one where it receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in areas with hot summers. They can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, but too much shade can reduce blooming while too much harsh sun can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureHardy Geraniums, like the Cally strain Geranium soboliferum, prefer moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from about 50°F to 75°F. They can survive short periods of colder temperatures, even down to 20°F, but frost is detrimental. The ideal temperature for robust growth is between 60°F and 70°F.
PruningPrune Hardy Geraniums to promote bushier growth and remove spent flowers, which encourages continuous blooming. For the Cally strain Geranium soboliferum, pruning is best done in early spring or after the first bloom cycle to rejuvenate the plant. Cut back the foliage by one-third to one-half, and deadhead regularly to maintain plant vigor and appearance. Pruning can be repeated if the plant becomes leggy during the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Crane's-bill plant prefers a soil mix that is well-draining and fertile, with a soil pH ranging from 5.8 to 6.3. A good mix would be equal parts of loam, peat moss, and sand or perlite. Regular organic matter enrichment will help maintain soil health.
RepottingCrane's-bill, generally, should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Repotting is best done in the spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingCrane's-bill thrives at average room humidity levels between 40-60%. No special humidity adjustments are required for the plant's health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and well-draining soil for Crane's-bill.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil for Crane's-bill.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium soboliferum, commonly known as the Crane's-bill geranium, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in soil and germinate, usually in spring as the temperatures warm. The seedlings emerge and develop into young plants with characteristic lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it forms a rosette of leaves at its base and starts to grow upright stems. By early to mid-summer, the Geranium soboliferum produces flowers, often in shades of pink or purple, which are followed by the development of distinctive beak-like seed pods from which the "Crane's-bill" name is derived. After pollination and seed development, these pods eventually release the seeds, completing the reproduction cycle. The plant may then go dormant in winter, especially in colder climates, but can re-emerge from the rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium soboliferum 'Cally strain', commonly known as cranesbill, is typically propagated by seed or by division. The most popular method of propagation is division, which can be done in autumn or early spring. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring to keep a good section of the roots intact. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of root and a few shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at before, and water them thoroughly. After planting, maintain consistent moisture and expect new growth to establish quickly, especially if the divisions are kept in a well-lit area and are not allowed to dry out.
