Thurston's Cranesbill Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum 'Sherwood'
ABOUT
The 'Sherwood' variety of crane's bill features a lush mound of deeply lobed, medium-green leaves that provide a dense foliage backdrop for its delicate flowers. The plant is well known for its intricate blossoms which usually appear in a generous sprinkling over the dark green leaves. These flowers hold a charming shade of light pink with a paler center and feature a notable veining of a slightly darker hue, creating a lovely contrast and intricate detail. The flower petals are rounded with a slight ruffling at the edges which gives them a soft, romantic appearance. It is worth mentioning that crane's bill flowers typically have five petals arranged in a symmetrical set, adding to the balanced and harmonious look of the plant. Amidst the foliage, the flowers are borne on thin, branching stems which provide a gentle sway in the breeze, endowing the plant with a dynamic and airy feel. The green foliage and stems, when observed closely, may exhibit a slightly hairy texture adding to the tactile experience of the garden. The leaves themselves are notable for their ornamental quality, which last beyond the blooming season, sometimes changing color with the onset of cooler weather, adding additional interest to the garden landscape. Together, the charmingly veined soft pink flowers and robust mounds of green foliage make the crane's bill a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of old-fashioned elegance to their borders or flower beds without needing to accommodate very large plants. Its blossoms are especially attractive to beneficial insects, adding an element of ecological friendliness to its aesthetic appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Thurston's Cranesbill, Sherwood Geranium.
Common names
Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum 'Sherwood'.
ToxicityTo humans
Oxonian Cranesbill, which is the common name for Geranium × oxonianum, generally is not considered toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivity can vary, and some people may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction when handling the plant or if they have particularly sensitive skin. Symptoms caused by such irritation can include itching or a rash. It is not common to ingest parts of ornamental plants, and doing so with Oxonian Cranesbill is not advisable. However, there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion of this plant, indicating that it is not known to be toxic to humans when ingested in small quantities.
To pets
Oxonian Cranesbill is not known to be toxic to pets. Geraniums of this variety are generally considered safe for cats and dogs, and there are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from these plants. As with any plant, pets may sometimes have a mild stomach upset if they ingest large amounts of plant material, which could potentially lead to symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. However, these would not be symptoms of poisoning but rather a mechanical irritation or response to the ingestion of an unusual substance. It is always best to prevent pets from eating plants as a precautionary measure.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its delicate pink flowers and attractive foliage.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types.
- Ground Cover: Can be used to cover bare spots in the garden, helping to reduce weed growth.
- Drought Resistant: Once established, it can tolerate dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Long Blooming Period: Flowers from late spring to early fall, providing a long-lasting display of color.
- Tolerates Different Light Conditions: Grows in full sun to partial shade, offering flexibility in garden placement.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Less likely to be eaten by deer or rabbits, making it a good choice for areas with wildlife.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The leaves of Geranium can be infused to create a naturally scented water that can be used for linens or gentle cleaning agents.
- Geraniums are sometimes planted among vegetables like tomatoes to repel certain insects, due to their strong scent which some pests dislike.
- The leaves can be pressed and used in potpourri to provide a subtle fragrance in the home.
- Geranium flowers can be candied and used as edible decorations for desserts, adding a touch of elegance.
- These plants can be used in educational settings to teach children about pollination and plant biology through observation.
- Geranium petals can be used in bath soaks, providing a natural aroma and contributing to a relaxing bath experience.
- The plant can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms and attractive foliage.
- Geraniums can be used in natural dyeing processes, where the blooms impart colors on fabrics.
- Garden workshops and horticultural therapy sessions often include geraniums to facilitate learning about plant care and for therapeutic activities.
- The visual appeal of Geranium can be utilized in photography for nature-themed art projects and creative compositions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: The geranium is often associated with healing due to its medicinal properties. It is believed to promote emotional, physical, and spiritual healing.
- Friendship: Gifting a geranium can symbolize a deep friendship or a wish for a friend's good health and happiness.
- Harmony: The balanced growth and pleasant appearance of the geranium can represent harmony in life or relationships.
- Good Health: The geranium is also symbolic of good health, possibly stemming from its use in herbal remedies and aromatherapy.
- Fertility: Some cultures believe geraniums are symbols of fertility and abundance.
WaterFor Geranium 'Sherwood', commonly known as Hardy Geranium, it is essential to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during the growing season. Generally, watering once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant should suffice. However, this can vary depending on climate conditions and soil drainage. During hot, dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week, whereas reduce it during periods of heavy rainfall or cooler temperatures. It's important not to overwater and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions to avoid root rot.
LightThe Hardy Geranium 'Sherwood' thrives best in partial to full sun conditions. A spot that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade is ideal, as it balances the plant's need for sun with protection from the intense heat of the day. However, this hardy perennial can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in hotter regions, it's crucial to ensure some shade in the afternoons.
TemperatureHardy Geranium 'Sherwood' can survive a wide range of temperatures, but ideally, it prefers to grow in environments where temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about 20°F and maxima up to around 85°F. Avoid exposing the plant to frost, and make sure to provide protection if temperatures are expected to drop below the tolerance range.
PruningPruning Hardy Geranium 'Sherwood' is essential for encouraging a flush of fresh growth and more blooms. Cut back the foliage by one-third to one-half after the first wave of flowering, usually in midsummer. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season can also promote continuous flowering. The best time for extensive pruning is either in spring to shape the plant or after flowering to revitalize and prepare it for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the cranesbill (Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum 'Sherwood') is well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.3. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or leaf mold to enhance fertility and water retention.
RepottingCranesbills, including Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum 'Sherwood', should be repotted every 3-4 years or when they outgrow their pots. Spring is the ideal time for repotting to encourage new growth.
Humidity & MistingCranesbills like moderate humidity levels, but they are adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found indoors. Aim for humidity levels between 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure soil drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Cranesbill 'Sherwood' begins its life cycle as a seed, sown either by natural means or human intervention, typically in well-draining soil. It germinates and emerges as a seedling, characterized by its small, initial leaves. As it grows, it enters the vegetative stage, developing a rosette of lobed leaves and a sturdy root system. Upon reaching maturity, the plant produces flowering stems with eye-catching purple-pink flowers that attract pollinators, a crucial stage for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules, each containing seeds that are eventually dispersed, thus completing the cycle. During the winter, the plant may die back, entering a period of dormancy, but with the return of warmer weather in spring, it will resume growth from the rootstock.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum 'Sherwood', commonly known as a variety of Hardy Geranium, is often propagated by division. This is typically carried out in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground with a spade, ensuring a good amount of the root system is intact. The root ball should then be gently teased apart into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and foliage. These sections can be immediately replanted into well-draining soil, spaced approximately 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) apart to allow for spreading. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new locations. This method of vegetative propagation not only helps to increase the number of plants but also reinvigorates older plants that have become woody or less vigorous over time.
