Herb Robert Geranium robertianum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Herb Robert is an herbaceous annual or biennial plant that is well-recognized for its distinct appearance. Its stems are reddish, branched, and covered with fine hairs which gives them a somewhat fuzzy look. The foliage of Herb Robert features leaves that are deeply lobed and divided into segments, again with a fine hair covering, which provides the leaves with a soft texture. The green of the leaves can be tinged with red, particularly as the plant matures or in response to stress conditions like drought. One of the most striking features of this plant is its flowers. The flowers are small, measuring just across, with five petals that are typically pale pink to purple in color, presenting a noticeable contrast against the foliage. These petals possess rounded edges, and often display darker lines or striations which act as nectar guides for pollinating insects. At the center of the flower, there are distinct reproductive parts including numerous stamens surrounding the central pistil, which can sometimes contribute to the color variation found in the blooms. When in fruit, Herb Robert produces beak-like seed pods that are visibly tucked beneath the foliage. The seeds within these pods can be flung far away from the parent plant when the ripe pods burst open, aiding in the propagation of the species. The plant also emits a characteristic odor when crushed, which is often described as musky or somewhat unpleasant, adding to its distinctive profile among plant enthusiasts and in its native habitats.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Herb Robert, Red Robin, Death Come Quickly, Storksbill, Dove's Foot, Crow's Foot, Robert Geranium, Cranesbill
Common names
Robertiella robertiana, Geranium purpureum, Geranium robertianum var. purpureum, Geranium robertianum var. robertianum.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 feet 4 inches (40 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Geranium robertianum can attract bees and other pollinating insects to your garden, thereby supporting pollination of surrounding plants.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its delicate pink to purple flowers, Geranium robertianum can add color and visual interest to gardens and natural landscapes.
- Erosion control: This plant can help prevent soil erosion due to its ability to grow in a variety of conditions, including rocky and unstable terrain.
- Wildlife habitat: Geranium robertianum provides shelter and food for various insects, which in turn can attract birds and other wildlife to the area.
- Companion planting: It may be beneficial when planted alongside vegetables and other garden plants as it can help deter certain pests.
- Easy to grow: Geranium robertianum is known for its hardiness and can thrive with minimal care, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those with less time for maintenance.
- Seasonal interest: Its lifecycle provides visual interest from its flowering period in late spring to its dieback in autumn, offering seasonal dynamics in the garden.
- Traditional uses: Historically, Geranium robertianum has been used in folklore and herbalism for various non-medical purposes such as in dyeing fabrics.
Medical Properties- Antibacterial: Geranium robertianum has been traditionally used for its potential to fight bacteria.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation.
- Astringent: It is believed to have astringent properties that can help to tighten tissues and reduce bleeding.
- Diuretic: Geranium robertianum is sometimes used as a diuretic to promote the production of urine.
- Gastroprotective: It has been used to protect the stomach lining and to aid in digestive issues.
- Hemostatic: The plant is known for its potential to stop bleeding, both internally and externally.
- Immune system support: Thought to support the immune system, although specific mechanisms are not well defined.
- Sedative: It is sometimes used for its purported sedative properties to help with anxiety and sleep disorders.
- Vulnerary: Used traditionally to promote wound healing and tissue repair.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geranium robertianum, commonly known as herb-Robert, can be used as a natural dye source, providing a range of colors from brown to orange depending on the mordant used.
- In agriculture, herb-Robert is sometimes planted to attract beneficial insects such as predatory wasps that control pest populations.
- Gardeners may use the strong-smelling leaves of herb-Robert to deter deer and rabbits from eating other garden plants.
- Some cultures use dried herb-Robert leaves as a natural insect repellent, hanging bundles of dried leaves in their homes or burning them like incense.
- Herb-Robert is incorporated into compost heaps to speed up the decomposition process due to its high mineral content.
- The entire herb-Robert plant can be macerated to make a plant feed or fertilizer because of its high potassium content.
- Folk art and crafts may utilize the delicate appearance of herb-Robert flowers for decorative pressing or inclusion in natural artworks.
- In a survival situation, the leaves of herb-Robert could be used as a mild astringent or antiseptic to clean minor wounds due to its tannin content. (However, it's always safer to use a medically approved antiseptic.)
- During history re-enactments or educational programs, herb-Robert may be used to demonstrate the historical methods of plant-based domestic tasks, such as cleaning or washing due to its astringent qualities.
- Culinary experimentation may involve using small quantities of the herb-Robert in salads or as a garnish for its unique flavor and presentation, although it is not typically used in mainstream cooking.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Herb Robert is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Herb Robert is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Geranium robertianum, commonly known as Herb Robert, is traditionally associated with healing due to its medicinal properties used in folk remedies.
- Good Health: As a plant with a use in traditional medicine, Herb Robert symbolizes good health and the maintenance of it.
- Tranquility: The pleasant appearance of Herb Robert is often associated with tranquility and a peaceful environment.
- Fertility: In some cultures, Herb Robert is symbolic of fertility, possibly tied to its prolific seeding and ability to spread in the wild.
WaterTo adequately water Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), it is best to maintain consistently moist soil without over-watering, which could lead to root rot. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might translate to watering once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. Provide enough water to soak the soil to a depth of about 6 inches. In hotter, dryer periods, increase watering frequency, and reduce it during cooler, wet months. Generally, giving Herb Robert about one gallon of water per week should keep it hydrated, but always adjust based on weather and soil drainage.
LightHerb Robert (Geranium robertianum) thrives in bright, indirect light and can also tolerate partial shade. It should be placed in a spot where it receives dappled sunlight or a few hours of morning sun, followed by shade in the afternoon. Avoid exposing the plant to the harsh, direct sunlight of midday, especially during the peak summer months, as this can cause the leaves to burn.
TemperatureHerb Robert, commonly known as Geranium robertianum, prefers a temperature range between 50°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It can withstand cooler temperatures down to around 25°F, but should be protected from frost. Warmer conditions over 75°F might stress the plant, especially if accompanied by high humidity or dry soil.
PruningPruning Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) is beneficial for encouraging bushier growth and removing any discolored or dead foliage that can harbor diseases or pests. Prune back leggy stems in early spring to promote a denser habit. Additionally, deadhead spent flowers to prolong the blooming period. Regular pruning can occur every few weeks during the active growing season to keep the plant tidy and healthy.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) should be well-draining, loamy and rich in organic matter. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite works well to mimic its natural environment. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, so aiming for a pH range between 5.6 and 7.5 will support robust growth.
RepottingHerb Robert typically doesn't require frequent repotting due to its status as an annual or biennial plant. It can self-seed and naturalize in an outdoor setting. Indoors, repot annually or when you notice significant outgrowth from the current container.
Humidity & MistingHerb Robert prefers a moderate level of humidity, similar to what you would find in its natural woodland habitat. Aim for humidity levels around 40-60% to create a favorable environment for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Herb Robert in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, with moist and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleGeranium robertianum, commonly known as Herb-Robert, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after a period of dormancy, germinates in favorable conditions, mainly in spring or autumn. The seedling stage follows, where the plant develops its first true leaves and establishes a root system. As it transitions to the vegetative stage, Herb-Robert grows in size and produces a rosette of lobed leaves, with stems that can turn red in sunlight. The plant enters the reproductive stage by flowering from spring to autumn, presenting small pink to purple blossoms, which are then pollinated by insects. Following successful pollination, the plant produces fruits, which are beak-like capsules containing seeds that are spread by gravity or animal activity. The plant completes its cycle by dying back after seeding, being an annual or biennial, and relying on the new generation of seeds to perpetuate the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Herb-Robert, commonly known as Geranium robertianum, is through seed sowing. Seed propagation is often done in early spring after the last frost when the soil temperature has warmed up sufficiently. The seeds require light for germination, so they should be sown on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil, but not covered. To maintain the necessary moisture, the seeds can be gently watered or misted, and the container may be covered with a clear plastic lid or wrap to create a greenhouse effect. Once seedlings emerge and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden, ensuring they are spaced adequately to allow for their spreading habit.
