Erodium aka Stork's Bill

Erodium is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care once established. These tough little plants are drought-tolerant, have virtually no pest or disease problems, and thrive on neglect. They are excellent choices for beginner gardeners or anyone wanting low-maintenance ornamental plants. Newly planted specimens benefit from occasional watering during warm weather, but established plants are largely self-sufficient.

Erodium is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal watering. Water newly planted specimens regularly during warm weather to help them establish, then reduce watering significantly. Established plants thrive in low-water conditions and excel in xeriscaping. Light summer watering can enhance flowering but isn't essential. Avoid overwatering, as these plants dislike waterlogged conditions and require well-drained soil.

Erodium requires well-drained, gritty soil—this is the most critical requirement for success. Heavy, waterlogged soil will cause root rot and plant failure. Ideal soil is a mix of perlite, sand, and compost with good drainage. These plants prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH; add lime if your soil is acidic. They will tolerate poor fertility and actually perform well in lean soils typical of rock gardens.

Erodium generally does not require fertilization. These plants perform well in poor to average soil and may actually produce more compact growth and better flowering without supplemental feeding. If desired, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can be beneficial, but it's not necessary. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Erodium can be propagated by seeds, division, or cuttings. For seeds, sow in spring at around 55°F (13°C) for taller species, or in late summer in a cold frame for alpine types. Division is best done in early spring—simply separate established clumps and replant. For cuttings, take basal cuttings from side shoots in late spring, ensuring each cutting includes a small piece of the parent crown. Root cuttings in sandy soil and they should establish within 4-6 weeks.

Erodium species are compact, low-growing plants that form dense mounds or spreading clumps. Most ornamental varieties reach 3-8 inches (8-20 cm) in height and spread 8-18 inches (20-45 cm) wide. The wild species E. cicutarium can reach up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall including flower stems. Growth is moderate, with plants forming established clumps within one growing season. The compact habit makes them ideal for rock gardens, containers, and border edging.

Erodium produces charming five-petaled flowers that resemble small geraniums. Blooms come in shades of white, pink, rose, purple, lavender, and yellow depending on the species. Many varieties feature attractive darker veining or blotches on the upper petals, adding visual interest. Flowers are typically small (under 1 inch) but produced abundantly over an exceptionally long season—from April through October or even frost. The distinctive beak-like seed pods that follow give the genus its common names 'stork's bill' and 'heron's bill.'

Erodium flowers are pollinated by various insects including bees, butterflies, beetles, moths, and flies. The flowers are also self-fertile, meaning they can set seed without cross-pollination. The blooms serve as excellent nectar sources, and pollinators have been observed resting inside the cup-shaped flowers. Erodium is a good choice for pollinator-friendly gardens, attracting beneficial insects throughout its long flowering season.

Popular garden varieties include: E. reichardii (the most common) with dark green scalloped leaves and white or pink flowers; E. chrysanthum with silvery fern-like foliage and creamy yellow flowers; E. × variabile 'Roseum' which has won the RHS Award of Garden Merit; 'Bishop's Form' known for its hardiness and abundant pink blooms; 'Merstham Pink' with rose-pink flowers; and 'Spanish Eyes' featuring lavender flowers with purple blotches. Most varieties bloom continuously from spring through fall.

Erodium is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in rock gardens, alpine gardens, containers, border edges, and as ground cover. Hardiness varies by species: E. reichardii is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, E. chrysanthum to zones 6-8, and some cultivars like 'Bishop's Form' survive in zone 6. They tolerate maritime exposure and can be grown year-round outdoors in suitable climates. In colder regions, provide winter protection or grow in containers that can be moved to shelter.

Erodium has remarkably few pest or disease problems. Missouri Botanical Garden reports 'no serious insect or disease problems,' though leaf galls are common and aphids or spider mites may occasionally appear on plants grown under glass. These plants are generally resistant to slugs and snails and show moderate deer resistance. The main cultural problem is root rot from overwatering or poorly drained soil—ensuring proper drainage prevents most issues.

Erodium requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming throughout the long flowering season. In spring, a hard cutback can help maintain a neat, compact appearance and stimulate fresh growth. Most varieties are evergreen, though E. chrysanthum is winter-deciduous and naturally dies back. Remove any damaged or dead foliage as needed. The compact, self-contained growth habit means these plants rarely become unruly.

Erodium species vary in cold tolerance. Most garden varieties are hardy to around 0°F to 10°F (-18°C to -12°C), corresponding to USDA zones 6-7. Some hardier cultivars like 'Bishop's Form' can survive zone 6 temperatures. E. reichardii is more tender, hardy to zone 7 (10°F/-12°C). These plants tolerate heat well and perform excellently in Mediterranean climates. USDA FEIS notes that seed germination is triggered by temperatures ranging from 69°F (21°C) days to 40°F (4°C) nights.

Yes, several parts of Erodium cicutarium are edible. Young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a potherb—harvest them before flowering for best flavor. Young stems can be eaten raw. Children have traditionally chewed the roots as a type of gum. The plant has a mild, slightly astringent taste. As with any foraged plant, ensure proper identification and collect from areas free of pesticides or pollutants.

Erodium cicutarium has traditional medicinal uses as an astringent and hemostatic (blood-stopping) herb. The plant contains tannins and has been used to treat uterine bleeding and other hemorrhages. Leaves have been eaten by nursing mothers to increase milk production. Externally, the plant has been applied as a wash or poultice for animal bites, skin infections, sores, and rashes. A leaf tea has been used as a diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) and diuretic. Note that medicinal use should be supervised by qualified practitioners.

Beyond ornamental and culinary uses, Erodium has several practical applications. A green dye can be obtained from the whole plant without requiring a mordant. The hygroscopic seed styles, which coil and uncoil with humidity changes, have been used as natural weather indicators. The plant's unique self-burial seed mechanism has also attracted scientific interest for biomimicry applications. In rangelands, it provides forage for livestock and wildlife, with seeds consumed by gamebirds and rodents.

Stork's Bill’s native range is S. Europe to W. Asia.

Stork's Bill requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Filaree is always in the right place to thrive.

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.