Dusky Cranesbill Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Langthorns Blue'
ABOUT
The Geranium phaeum, commonly known as dusky cranesbill or mourning widow, 'Langthorns Blue' variety is notable for its alluring dark maroon to purple flowers which exhibit a subtle bluish tinge. These blooms are composed of reflexed petals that surround a prominent cluster of stamens, offering a delicate touch to the dusky hues. The plant carries these blossoms above mounds of foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, with a rich, green color and a slightly marbled or mottled texture, which can add to the attractiveness of the plant even when it's not in bloom. This varietal, with its unique flower coloration and attractive foliage, is a popular choice for gardens due to its ornamental value and ability to add depth and contrast to planting schemes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Dusky Cranesbill, Mourning Widow, Black Widow
Common names
Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Langthorns Blue'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dusky cranesbill, commonly known as Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Langthorns Blue', is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports or symptoms associated with poisoning from ingesting this plant as it is deemed non-toxic. Therefore, there are no established consequences directly attributed to the ingestion of Dusky cranesbill for humans.
To pets
Dusky cranesbill, generally known as Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Langthorns Blue', is not considered toxic to pets. It is not listed among plants known to cause poisoning in household pets such as dogs and cats. Thus, there are no specific symptoms or recognized consequences reported for pet poisoning from any part of the Dusky cranesbill.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The Geranium phaeum 'Langthorns Blue' is known to attract bees and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in gardens.
- Easy to Grow: This variety is considered low-maintenance, which makes it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Shade Tolerance: 'Langthorns Blue' can thrive in partially shaded areas, where many other plants might struggle to grow.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, this plant can tolerate periods of dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its distinctive blue-purple flowers and attractive foliage, this geranium adds aesthetic value to garden settings.
- Ground Cover: It can spread effectively, making it an excellent choice for ground cover, preventing weed growth, and retaining soil moisture.
- Long Blooming: This plant has a relatively long flowering period, which can provide visual interest throughout the growing season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geranium phaeum, also known as Dusky Cranesbill, can be used as a natural fabric dye, where the leaves and flowers impart a subtle green or brown tint to textiles.
- The petals of Dusky Cranesbill may be used in the creation of eco-friendly inks for artistic purposes or sustainable printing.
- This plant's dense foliage provides an ideal living mulch, suppressing weeds and maintaining soil moisture in garden beds.
- Florists sometimes incorporate Dusky Cranesbill in flower arrangements for its attractive foliage and long-lasting nature when cut.
- Dusky Cranesbill serves as a host plant for some butterfly and moth species, supporting biodiversity within a garden ecosystem.
- When planted en masse, the Dusky Cranesbill can act as erosion control on slopes and banks due to its thick root system.
- The contrasting foliage of Dusky Cranesbill can be used in landscape design to create patterns or green "painting" on large garden canvases.
- Used in sensory gardens, the textured leaves of Dusky Cranesbill can provide a tactile experience for visitors.
- In colder climates, Dusky Cranesbill is valued for its hardiness and can be used to fill garden spaces where other plants might not thrive.
- The seed pods of Dusky Cranesbill have a unique shape and are sometimes used in dried flower crafts for added texture and interest.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- True Friendship: Geraniums are often associated with true friendship, symbolizing close human bonds and the maintenance of relationships over time.
- Good Health: The geranium plant, known for its medicinal properties in folk medicine, is often linked to wishes for good health and recovery.
- Unexpected Meeting: In the language of flowers, a geranium can mean an unexpected encounter, perhaps suggesting that a new person may enter one’s life or a surprise meeting might occur.
- Happiness: Reflecting the cheerful appearance of its flowers, geraniums are commonly symbolic of happiness and positive emotions.
- Ingenuity: The geranium is also representative of ingenuity or cleverness, hinting at the ability to find inventive solutions to problems.
WaterThe Dusky Cranesbill should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, particularly during the growing season in spring and summer. It is generally recommended to water this plant about once a week, though this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. The amount of water may range from half to one gallon per week, depending on the plant's size and the environmental conditions. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil deeply to encourage deep root growth. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.
LightDusky Cranesbill thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions, depending on the climate. It performs best in a location that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in areas with hot summers. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but should be protected from the intense midday sun in warmer regions.
TemperatureDusky Cranesbill is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to highs around 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which promotes healthy growth and flowering.
PruningDusky Cranesbill benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom, as well as to maintain a neat appearance. Prune the plant lightly in the summer after the first wave of flowering has ended. It can also be cut back in late autumn or early spring to remove old growth and make way for new shoots.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDusky Cranesbill, commonly known as 'Langthorns Blue', thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 5.8 to 7.0. A good soil mix consists of loamy garden soil, compost, and leaf mold or peat to enhance drainage and fertility. Amending the soil with organic matter annually will support robust growth.
RepottingDusky Cranesbill should be repotted every 2-3 years to rejuvenate the soil and manage its growth. Spring is the ideal time for repotting, allowing the plant to settle before the growing season. Divide the rootball if necessary to propagate or maintain plant size.
Humidity & MistingDusky Cranesbill tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions, making it adaptable to most garden environments. Regular garden humidity levels are typically sufficient for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleGeranium phaeum, commonly known as Dusky Cranesbill, undergoes the typical life cycle of a perennial plant. It begins as a seed, which upon germination in early spring grows into a seedling. The seedling develops into a mature plant with a basal rosette of leaves; it then undergoes vegetative growth and matures over a few weeks to months depending on conditions. In late spring to early summer, the Dusky Cranesbill produces small, dark purple to blue flowers, which are followed by the formation of distinctive beak-like seed pods. After flowering, the plant may go dormant, especially in regions with hot summers or cold winters, retreating to the underground rootstock. With the arrival of favorable conditions in the following year, the plant reemerges from the rootstock, completing its cycle and beginning the process anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Geranium phaeum, commonly known as Mourning Widow or Dusky Cranesbill, is best propagated by division, which can be done in either spring or early fall. This popular method involves carefully lifting the parent plant from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring as much of the root system as possible remains intact. The clumps should then be gently teased apart into smaller pieces, each with a portion of root and a few shoots. These divisions should be immediately replanted at the same depth they were previously growing, spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart (approximately 30 to 45 centimeters), and watered in well. This will allow new plants to establish themselves quickly, and, given the right conditions, they will flourish and produce their distinctive blooms, contributing to the garden's aesthetic appeal.
