Hedgerow Crane's-bill Geranium pyrenaicum
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Hedgehog Geranium features an unassuming yet charming appearance typical of the geranium family. It has rounded to kidney-shaped leaves that are softly lobed, giving them a somewhat serrated look along the edges. These leaves often have a delicate, velvety texture accompanied by fine hairs that contribute to its somewhat fuzzy appearance. Hedgehog Geranium boasts dainty flowers, which typically have five petals each. These flowers are notable for their color, which ranges from a pale to more vivid pink, often with subtle veining that adds depth and visual interest. The petals are rounded with a slight notch at the tip, which contributes to the overall beauty of the bloom. As with many geraniums, the stem of the Hedgehog Geranium is fleshy and may have a trailing or upright habit, with branching that allows the plant to spread gently in its preferred habitat. Overall, the look of Hedgehog Geranium is cheery and can add a soft, wildflower-like touch to garden spaces or natural plantings, with its flowers peeking out among the green foliage. This plant, while modest in its form, exudes a certain wild charm that is appreciated by gardeners looking for a touch of natural grace and simplicity.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Hedgerow Crane's-bill, Hedgerow Geranium, Mountain Geranium, Pyrenean Cranesbill, Pyrenean Geranium.
Common names
Geranium pyrenaicum subsp. pyrenaicum, Geranium pyrenaicum subsp. celtibericum, Geranium robertianum var. microphyllum, Robertium pyrenaicum, Geranium endressii J.Gay ex Nyman, Geranium reflexum K.Koch, Geranium saxatile Salisb.
ToxicityTo humans
Hedge Geranium (Geranium pyrenaicum) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported for ingestion of this plant in the literature. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it is always wise to use caution and avoid ingesting plants unless they are known to be safe and are prepared correctly.
To pets
Hedge Geranium is also considered to be non-toxic to pets. There are no widespread reports of toxicity or poisoning in pets like dogs and cats after ingestion. However, as with humans, individual animals can have different sensitivities, so monitoring for any sign of adverse reaction when your pet eats any plant material is always a good idea.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Geranium pyrenaicum, commonly known as Hedgerow Cranesbill, adds aesthetic beauty to gardens with its delicate lavender flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other important pollinators, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Hedgerow Cranesbill is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal intervention once established. It tolerates a range of soil conditions and partial shade.
- Drought Resistance: It can survive periods of dry weather, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with less frequent watering.
- Ground Cover: Its spreading habit can effectively cover bare spots, reducing soil erosion and controlling weed growth.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Geranium pyrenaicum may possess compounds that help reduce inflammation.
- Astringent: The plant might have properties that cause the contraction of body tissues and can be used to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions.
- Diuretic: It may promote the increased production of urine, aiding in the flushing out of toxins from the body.
- Hemostatic: Geranium pyrenaicum is sometimes considered to have blood-stopping properties.
- Wound healing: There may be compounds present in the plant that help in the healing of wounds.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hedgerow Barrier: Geranium pyrenaicum can be used in rural areas to form dense hedgerows that provide structure to the landscape and habitats for wildlife.
- Soil Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil on slopes, preventing erosion.
- Dye Production: Historically, some geranium species have been used for dyeing fabric, and Geranium pyrenaicum may have potential for creating natural dyes.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its delicate flowers, Geranium pyrenaicum can be used in ornamental gardens for visual appeal.
- Educational Tool: This species can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology and the ecology of meadow ecosystems.
- Butterfly and Bee Attractant: Geranium pyrenaicum can be planted to attract and support pollinators such as butterflies and bees in a garden setting.
- Ground Cover: It can serve as an effective ground cover, filling in spaces between larger plants and suppressing weed growth.
- Companion Planting: Geranium pyrenaicum can be used in companion planting to benefit other plants, possibly by deterring certain pests with its scent.
- Culinary Decoration: Though not commonly consumed, the petals of Geranium pyrenaicum could be used to add a splash of color to salads or dishes as a decorative, edible garnish.
- Artistic Inspiration: The plant's form and color can serve as inspiration for artists in various mediums, such as painting or photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hedge Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hedge Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unexpected Meeting: Geranium pyrenaicum, commonly known as Hedgerow Cranesbill, can pop up in unexpected places due to its resilient nature, symbolizing chance encounters or serendipity.
- Adaptability: As a species that can thrive in various conditions, the Hedgerow Cranesbill represents the ability to adapt to changing environments.
- Good Health: Like many geraniums, this plant is often associated with promoting good health and recovery.
- Fertility: The prolific nature of the Hedgerow Cranesbill, with its ability to spread and cover ground, also makes it a symbol of fertility.
- Friendship: Offering a Geranium pyrenaicum can be a gesture of deep friendship, as geraniums in general are often symbolic of close bonds between people.
WaterHedge Geraniums prefer even moisture, but it's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be once a week, depending on climate and indoor conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, watering may be needed more frequently, possibly every few days if conditions are particularly warm or dry. Provide the plants with approximately one gallon of water per week, adjusting as necessary for your specific environment. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, monitoring the soil moisture levels closely.
LightHedge Geranium thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and will do best in a spot that receives partial shade, especially protection from the intense midday sun. An east- or west-facing windowsill is ideal, offering ample morning or afternoon light without the risk of scorching the leaves. These conditions mimic its natural habitat and help ensure vibrant growth and flowering.
TemperatureHedge Geraniums are hardy plants that prefer an average room temperature of 60-75°F. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 50°F but should not be subjected to temperatures below that, as they are not frost-tolerant. Protect the geraniums from extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts to maintain healthy growth.
PruningPrune Hedge Geranium to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. The best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back leggy stems by one-third to one-half, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHedge Geranium thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.3. The best soil mix is a blend of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage.
RepottingHedge Geraniums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and allow room for growth. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one to prevent overcrowding of the roots.
Humidity & MistingHedge Geranium prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Maintaining indoor humidity between 40-60% is generally comfortable for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Hedge Geranium in bright, indirect light indoors for best growth.
Outdoor
Plant Hedge Geranium in partial shade to full sun outdoors.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleGeranium pyrenaicum, commonly known as the Hedgerow Crane's-bill, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in early spring when soil temperatures become suitable. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As the plant matures, it elongates its stems, upon which its distinctive five-petaled flowers—usually lilac or pale pink—bloom in late spring to early summer. Following pollination, often by insects, the plant produces distinctive beak-shaped seed capsules that can fling seeds some distance upon maturation. Hedgerow Crane's-bill can self-seed prolifically, promoting its spread within its habitat. Over winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, before resuming growth and repeating its life cycle with the next spring's warmth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: Geranium pyrenaicum, commonly known as Hedgerow Crane's-bill, is typically propagated through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring. The process involves scattering seeds thinly over a well-draining seed starting mix in a tray or pot, then covering them lightly with a fine layer of soil. The container should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a warm, bright location, avoiding direct sunlight. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle and after the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors into their final positions, maintaining a distance of around 12 inches (about 30.5 centimeters) between plants to allow for adequate growth and airflow.
