Madeira Cranesbill Geranium maderense
ABOUT
Geranium maderense, commonly known as the giant herb Robert or the Madeira cranesbill, is a strikingly ornamental plant. It is characterized by a large, rounded mound of deeply cut, fern-like green leaves that are slightly hairy and can sometimes show a reddish hue, especially beneath. These leaves form a lush, dense foliage that serves as an attractive backdrop for its spectacular floral display. In bloom, the plant produces an abundance of magenta-pink to purplish flowers that are arranged in umbrella-like clusters, known as inflorescences, atop robust stems that rise above the foliage. Each flower is relatively small, comprising five rounded petals that together create a striking visual impact. The center of the flowers typically features prominent darker markings and a cluster of prominent stamens, which add to their ornamental value. Between the flowers and the leaves, the plant has a strong, sculptural aspect that makes it a favorite in gardens where it provides a tropical feel. The vivid colors and the ornamental foliage combine to make the Geranium maderense a distinctive and highly decorative plant that catches the eye when in full bloom.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Madeira Cranesbill, Giant Herb-Robert
Common names
Geranium maderense
ToxicityTo humans
The Madeira cranesbill (Geranium maderense) is not considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence of poisoning or harmful effects from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, sensitivity varies from person to person, and it's generally advisable not to eat ornamental plants.
To pets
Madeira cranesbill (Geranium maderense) is not generally known to be toxic to pets. While it is not listed as a common poisonous plant for animals such as dogs and cats, it is always wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants. Accidental consumption of non-food plants can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of any plant material and is showing symptoms of illness, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Madeira
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Geranium maderense, commonly known as Madeira Cranesbill, displays large, attractive pink or purple flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or space.
- Pollinator Attraction: The vibrant flowers of the Madeira Cranesbill attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, promoting biodiversity.
- Easy Cultivation: It is known for being relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Shade Tolerance: Madeira Cranesbill can tolerate partial shade, providing flexibility in garden design and planting locations.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant has a long flowering season, which ensures continuous color in the garden for an extended period.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Madeira Cranesbill can withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Rapid Growth: Geranium maderense can grow quickly, providing fast coverage and filling in garden spaces efficiently.
- Structural Interest: Its large, palmate leaves and tall flower stems add structural variety to planting schemes and landscapes.
- Self-seeding: Madeira Cranesbill is capable of self-seeding under the right conditions, which can lead to natural propagation and reduced replacement costs.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Living Fences: Geranium maderense can be grown closely together to form a living fence, giving a garden a unique and lush barrier.
- Dye Production: The petals and leaves could be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or art projects, although this is not a common use.
- Insect Repellant: Some gardeners plant Geranium maderense strategically to deter certain insects from their gardens due to its scent.
- Educational Tool: In botanical gardens, Geranium maderense can be used to teach about pollination and the growth cycle of biennial plants.
- Photography Background: The vibrant flowers and large foliage provide an excellent backdrop for garden photography and nature portraits.
- Garden Themes: This plant can be used to create themed gardens, like a "pink garden" due to its magenta blossoms.
- Landscape Design: Its dramatic size and shape can be used by landscape architects as a focal point in garden design.
- Arts and Crafts: Dried flowers can be used to make bookmarks, greeting cards, or other paper-based crafts.
- Botanical Illustrations: Artists may use Geranium maderense as a subject for botanical illustrations or watercolor paintings.
- Seed Sharing: Gardeners might cultivate Geranium maderense to harvest its seeds and share with other plant enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Madeira cranesbill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Madeira cranesbill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance and Perseverance: Geranium maderense, commonly known as the Giant Herb Robert, is native to Madeira, an island known for its challenging terrain. The plant's ability to thrive in difficult conditions symbolizes endurance and perseverance.
- Unexpected Beauty: The Giant Herb Robert boasts a large, striking bloom which appears amidst its robust, green foliage. Its surprising beauty in harsh landscapes symbolizes the unexpected pleasures and hidden beauty in life.
- Adaptability: Adapting to various light conditions and soil types, the Giant Herb Robert represents the capacity to adjust and thrive in different environments and life situations.
WaterThe Madeira cranesbill requires consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering thoroughly once every week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions like heat and humidity. Use approximately half a gallon of water per plant for each watering session to ensure the soil is moistened but not drenched. During the winter months when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot.
LightThe Madeira cranesbill thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot that provides partial shade with some morning or late afternoon sun is ideal. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves, so avoid placing it in full sun during the hottest part of the day. If indoors, a south or west-facing window with filtered light would be a suitable location for this plant.
TemperatureThe Madeira cranesbill prefers mild temperatures and will flourish in conditions between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can endure temperatures as low as 50 degrees and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. To promote healthy growth, try to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures outside this range for extended periods.
PruningPrune the Madeira cranesbill to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged foliage. This encourages new growth and enhances the plant's overall health. Pruning is best done in early spring before the onset of new growth. Cut back the plant by one-third every couple of years to rejuvenate it and promote vigorous growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMadeira Cranesbill thrives in rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter, ideal pH is between 5.6 and 7.5. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or coconut coir, and one part perlite or sand is beneficial.
RepottingMadeira Cranesbill should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, repotting is less frequent once mature.
Humidity & MistingMadeira Cranesbill prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%, for optimal growth and health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Bright, indirect light; well-draining soil; water when topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Partial shade to full sun; shelter from strong winds; well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleGeranium maderense, commonly known as the Madeira Cranesbill, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination produces a radicle that grows into a small rosette of leaves. As it matures, the plant develops a woody stem and a larger leaf rosette, preparing for the flowering stage. In its second or third year, the plant sends up a tall flowering stalk, adorned with numerous pink or purplish flowers arranged in an umbrella-like pattern. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers form beak-like seed pods that propel the seeds away from the parent plant when ripe. Geranium maderense is biennial or short-lived perennial, meaning it completes its lifecycle within two years or a little more, dying after seed dissemination. New plants grow from the scattered seeds, perpetuating the cycle of this species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Geranium maderense, commonly known as Madeira cranesbill, is often propagated by seed. The best time to sow the seeds is in late winter to early spring, ideally indoors or under glass, to provide protection from the cold. Fresh seeds germinate more effectively, so it is recommended to use seeds collected from the plant right after they mature. Sow the seeds in a tray filled with a well-draining soil mix, lightly covering the seeds with soil. Water the soil gently and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Place the tray in a warm area with indirect light. Seedlings usually appear within a few weeks and can be transplanted to individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
