Geranium robertianum aka Robert's Geranium
Taxonomy
Geranium robertianum, also known as herb-Robert or Roberts geranium, is a common cranesbill species native to Europe, parts of Asia, North Africa, and parts of North America. It has many vernacular names such as red robin, fox geranium, stinking Bob, squinter-pip (Shropshire), and crow's foot. Once sold in nurseries as an ornamental plant and used for medicinal purposes, Herb Robert is now classified as a Class B noxious herb in Washington and Oregon due to its ability to spread rapidly and take over native habitats. However, controlling Herb Robert is easy and non-toxic, although it may be time-consuming. On the other hand, Robert Geranium is a rare houseplant that thrives on regular watering and direct light, preferably less than a foot from a window. It prefers soil that retains moisture and does not need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.
Common names
Robert's Geranium, Robert Geranium, Herb Robert, Red Robin, Death Come QuicklyHow to care for Robert's Geranium
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Robert's Geranium due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Robert's Geranium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
If you're planting Robert's Geranium, 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 Red Robin 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 Robert's Geranium will thrive!
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Robert's Geranium prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
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 Robert's Geranium 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.
Growth-pattern
Robert's Geranium grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Robert's Geranium’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia to N. Africa, east to.Japan and the Himalayas.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Geranium Genus
Geranium maderense Giant Herb Robert
Geranium incanum Geranium Incanum
Geranium robertianum Robert's Geranium
Geranium erianthum Woolly Crane's Bill
Geranium wlassovianum
Geranium caespitosum Pineywoods Geranium
Geranium viscosissimum Sticky Geranium
Geranium yeoi Geranium Yeoi
