Bloody cranesbill

Description

Geranium sanguineum is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has been widely introduced and naturalized in North America. It is commonly known as bloody cranesbill, bloody geranium, or bloody nose. The plant derives its name from the Latin word "sanguineum", meaning "bloody", which refers to the deep red color of its flowers. Description Geranium sanguineum grows up to a height of 30-50 cm and spreads up to 60 cm. It has a clumping habit and produces basal rosettes of dark green, deeply lobed leaves that are about 10-15 cm wide. The leaves are deeply dissected, with toothed edges and rounded lobes. The stem is erect and hairy, with several branches. The flowers are produced on long stalks, rising above the foliage. They are about 2.5 cm in diameter, with five rounded petals that are deep pink to crimson in color. The flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer, and are followed by seed capsules that split open to release small brown seeds. Habitat and Distribution Geranium sanguineum is native to Europe and Asia, including countries such as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, and Turkey. It has also been introduced to North America, where it has naturalized in several states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. In its native range, Geranium sanguineum is typically found in open woods, meadows, and on rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained, fertile soils and can tolerate both sunny and partially shaded habitats. In North America, it is commonly found in gardens and landscapes, as well as in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. Cultivation Geranium sanguineum is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. Here are some tips on how to successfully grow Geranium sanguineum: Sunlight: Geranium sanguineum grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, but may produce fewer flowers in heavy shade. Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sand, but does best in fertile, moist soil. Water: Geranium sanguineum has moderate water needs and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as the plant can be susceptible to root rot in soggy soil. Fertilizer: Geranium sanguineum generally does not require fertilization. However, if you want to promote growth and flowering, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year in early spring or late summer. Propagation: Geranium sanguineum can be propagated by division or by seed. Divisions should be taken in the spring or fall, and the plant can also self-seed if conditions are favorable. Pruning: Geranium sanguineum benefits from periodic pruning to remove spent flowers and promote bushy growth. After the initial flowering period, you can trim back the plant by up to one-third to encourage a second flush of flowers. Overall, Geranium sanguineum is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. With proper care, it can provide years of beauty and interest in your garden or landscape. Uses Geranium sanguineum has several uses, both ornamental and medicinal. Ornamental Uses: Geranium sanguineum is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is often used as a groundcover or border plant, and is especially effective when planted in mass. The plant's deep red flowers provide a striking contrast to green foliage and can add color to the garden for several weeks. Geranium sanguineum is also attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens. Medicinal Uses: Geranium sanguineum has some medicinal properties. The plant contains tannins, which have astringent properties and can be used to treat wounds and bleeding. It has also been used to treat diarrhea and dysentery. In traditional medicine, the roots of Geranium sanguineum have been used as a diuretic and to treat kidney stones. The plant is also used in homeopathy to treat conditions such as hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It is important to note that while Geranium sanguineum has a history of use in traditional medicine, more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits and risks. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal remedies. Conservation Status The conservation status of Geranium sanguineum is generally considered to be of "Least Concern". This means that it is not currently considered to be at significant risk of extinction in the wild. While Geranium sanguineum is not threatened overall, some local populations may be at risk due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation. In some areas, the plant may also face competition from invasive species. Conservation efforts for Geranium sanguineum primarily focus on protecting and preserving its natural habitat, as well as monitoring populations to assess any changes in abundance or distribution. In addition, there may be efforts to promote the use of native plants in gardens and landscaping, which can help to reduce pressure on wild populations. Overall, while Geranium sanguineum may face some localized threats, it is not currently considered to be at significant risk of extinction. Conclusion Geranium sanguineum is a popular garden plant that is known for its deep red flowers and easy cultivation. It has some medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Whether used for ornamental or medicinal purposes, Geranium sanguineum is a versatile and attractive plant that is sure to add color and interest to any garden or landscape.