Hardy Cranesbill Geranium × monacense var. anglicum
ABOUT
The plant known by the common name cranesbill has a distinctive appearance that is easy to recognize in gardens and natural habitats. It exhibits a lush foliage that is typically green, with leaves that could be palmately-lobed or deeply cut, sometimes taking on shades of red or purple depending on the variety and environmental conditions. The cranesbill is also well known for its flowers, which vary in color but often include shades of pink, blue, purple, or white. These blooms usually have five petals that can be veined or textured and may form a cup or saucer shape. Some varieties have flowers that feature distinctive dark lines or blotches at the base of each petal, which can help attract pollinators. The cranesbill's stems can be trailing or upright, and in some varieties, the stems may be hairy or sticky. After flowering, the plant forms unique, beak-like seedpods that give it its common name, as they resemble the bill of a crane. These seedpods can be quite interesting to observe as they unfurl and can add additional ornamental appeal to the plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Hybrid Crane's-bill, Cambridge Geranium
Common names
Geranium monacense var. anglicum.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Geranium × monacense var. anglicum is the Cranesbill geranium. Cranesbill geraniums are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They do not typically cause serious illness if ingested in small amounts. However, large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not specifically grown for consumption.
To pets
The common name for Geranium × monacense var. anglicum is the Cranesbill geranium. Cranesbill geraniums are generally considered non-toxic to pets. They do not usually cause any serious health problems if pets nibble on them. However, as with humans, consuming large amounts of the plant could potentially lead to mild digestive upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is always best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Produces decorative blooms that enhance garden aesthetics.
- Easy Maintenance: Generally easy to care for and does not require complicated upkeep.
- Drought Tolerance: Can survive with minimal water, making it suitable for dry climates.
- Pest Resistance: Often resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Adaptability: Capable of growing in a variety of soil types and weather conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: Flowers for an extended period, providing color in the garden for many months.
- Ground Cover: Can be used to cover bare spots in the garden, reducing weed growth.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that aid in pollination.
- Edging Plants: Works well for borders and edges due to its compact growth habit.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, offering versatility in garden design.
Medical Properties
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geraniums can be used to create a natural, aluminum-free deodorant due to their pleasant fragrance and potential antibacterial properties.
- Certain geranium species' leaves can be infused in water to create a flavorful, aromatic herbal tea.
- Dried geranium petals can be used to make colorful, fragrant potpourri mixtures that refresh room scents.
- Geranium essential oil, extracted from the leaves, is commonly used in aromatherapy for its soothing effects on the mind and body.
- The vibrant flowers of the geranium can be used as decorative cake toppers or frozen within ice cubes for a pretty addition to beverages.
- Geranium leaves can be used in culinary dishes as a flavoring, similar to herbs like basil or mint, though moderation is advised.
- The plant can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from green to brown depending on the mordant used.
- Geranium petals can be included in handcrafted paper, providing a distinctive texture and appearance to the finished product.
- Used as a natural moth repellent, geraniums can protect woolen clothes when dried leaves are placed in closets or drawers.
- Geraniums can be grown as companion plants in the garden to help deter certain pests from more vulnerable crops.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cranesbill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cranesbill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unity: In some traditions, the geranium represents unity or togetherness, making it a suitable gift to convey a message of solidarity.
- Friendship: Geraniums are often considered a symbol of friendship, likely because they are hardy and long-lasting, much like the bonds between good friends.
- Health: The geranium is thought to symbolize good health, partly due to its use in folk medicine and its aromatic, therapeutic leaves.
- Happiness: The bright and cheerful blooms of the geranium are typically associated with happiness and positive emotions.
- Peace: The plant can signify peace, with its gentle appearance often promoting a sense of calm and serenity.
WaterThe most common name for Geranium × monacense var. anglicum is Cranesbill geranium. Water the Cranesbill geranium deeply to ensure the water reaches the root zone, then allow the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering to promote strong root development. Typically, watering once a week with approximately one inch of water will suffice, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. Ensure the plant receives about 0.5 gallons of water each time, adjusting as necessary during hot or dry periods when additional water may be needed.
LightCranesbill geranium thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions. For best growth, place the plant in a location where it receives morning sunlight and partial shade during the intense afternoon heat. An east or west-facing garden is ideal, as it allows the plant to enjoy some direct sunlight without being exposed to the scorching midday sun.
TemperatureCranesbill geranium prefers temperate climates and can typically withstand temperatures down to about 20°F before risking damage. The ideal temperature range for growing this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. Though Cranesbill geranium is somewhat tolerant of temperature fluctuations, avoid exposure to prolonged periods of extreme cold or heat.
PruningPruning Cranesbill geranium is necessary to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Trim back the plant after the first flush of blooms is over, which usually occurs in midsummer, to help stimulate new growth and additional flowering. Cut the stems back by about one-third to promote a second round of blooms in the fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hardy Geranium (Cranesbill) is well-draining soil amended with organic matter. A pH range of 5.8 to 6.3 is most suitable for this plant, ensuring it is neither too acidic nor too alkaline. A blend of topsoil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite can promote healthy root development and optimum growth.
RepottingHardy Geraniums should be repotted every 1-2 years to rejuvenate soil and prevent compaction. It's best to repot in spring before new growth begins, allowing the plant to establish in the new container throughout the growing season.
Humidity & MistingHardy Geraniums are adaptable to a range of humidity levels and do well in average room humidity. They typically thrive with humidity levels between 40% and 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium × monacense var. anglicum, commonly referred to as geranium, begins its life as a seed, with germination typically occurring in favorable conditions of moisture and temperature. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young plant with a basic root system and simple leaves as it undergoes the vegetative growth stage. The plant matures and develops a more extensive root system along with more complex and characteristic leaves, entering the flowering stage where it produces flowers that are pollinated by insects or through self-pollination. After successful pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds that are eventually dispersed by mechanisms such as wind, water, or animals. These seeds lie dormant until they encounter suitable environmental conditions to germinate, thus repeating the life cycle. The plant may also propagate vegetatively through division of the root system, thereby creating genetically identical offshoots.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For Geranium × monacense var. anglicum, commonly known as the Hardy Geranium, the most popular method of propagation is through division. Division is typically done in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the mature plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Make sure each new segment has adequate roots to support its growth. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at before, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart to give them room to grow. Water the new plants well to help establish them. This method is straightforward, ensures a clone of the parent plant, and is a quick way to generate new plants.
