Geranium dissectum aka Cut Leaved Crane's Bill

Taxonomy

Geranium dissectum, also known as cut-leaved crane's-bill, is a plant species native to Europe. However, it can also be found on other continents as an introduced species, including North America where it is referred to as the cutleaf geranium. This creeping annual plant features deeply-lobed, hairy green foliage and produces small, pretty purple-pink flowers with slightly notched petals and hairy sepals. It typically blooms from May to August and is commonly found in farmland, hedgebanks, and grassland areas where the soil has been recently disturbed. Geranium dissectum is reported to have extracts that can enhance germination rates of Hemp seeds. Another similar species, Geranium columbinum, is also referred to as cut-leaved crane's-bill and is native to Europe. It can be found in various other continents as well, including North America. This plant grows to an average height of 15-30 centimeters, though it can reach a maximum height of 60 centimeters. Its stem is erect, hairy, and branched, while its leaves are opposite, pentagonal, and palmate with deep cuts resembling a pigeon's foot. The pink to purple flowers of Geranium columbinum have obovate-heart-shaped petals as long as the sepals, measuring 15-20 millimeters in size. It is important to note that this plant may be poisonous. To control the growth of Geranium dissectum and similar plants, it is recommended to slash the area first and then spray the re-growth, allowing for new growth before applying herbicide. This method can improve the uptake of the herbicide and result in less chemical usage.

Common names

Cut Leaved Crane's Bill, Cut Leaf Crane's Bill, Cut Leaf Geranium

How to care for Cut Leaved Crane's Bill

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Cut Leaved Crane's Bill is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Cut Leaved Crane's Bill should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Cut Leaved Crane's Bill, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Cut Leaf Crane's Bill is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Cut Leaved Crane's Bill will thrive!

Lighting

Cut Leaved Crane's Bill thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Cut Leaf Geranium.

Toxicity

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.

Fertilizer

Once the Cut Leaved Crane's Bill has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Cut Leaved Crane's Bill’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, south to N. Africa and east to Iran.


More info:
Wikipedia