Common Stork's-bill
Erodium cicutarium
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Description
Common Stork's-bill (Erodium cicutarium) is a small annual herb native to the Mediterranean region, now widespread in temperate regions worldwide. It is characterized by its finely divided, fern-like leaves and small pink to purple flowers. In agroecology, it serves as a pioneer species, improving soil structure with its deep taproot, which accesses nutrients from deeper layers and enhances soil aeration. This plant is particularly valuable in regenerative agriculture as a cover crop or green manure, suppressing weeds and increasing soil organic matter. It attracts beneficial insects, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, and serves as a food source for birds with its seeds. In a food forest, it can be part of the herbaceous layer, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties.
Growing Details
Erodium cicutarium thrives in full sun and well-drained soils but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including poor and sandy soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover can enhance nitrogen availability. Avoid overwatering as the plant is drought-tolerant. Harvest leaves in early spring for the best flavor. Store harvested leaves in a cool, dry place to
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Erodium cicutarium</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Mediterranean region, now wides
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The young leaves and shoots of Common Stork's-bill are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a pot herb. They are best harvested in spring when tender. The seeds, though small, can be consumed raw or roasted, but require effort to harvest. Nutritionally, the leaves provide vitamins A and C.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Erodium cicutarium has been used for its astringent properties. It has been applied in folk medicine to treat wounds and skin conditions due to its potential anti-inflammatory effects. The leaves can be made into a poultice for topical application.
health concerns: Consumption should be moderate as excessive intake may cause digestive discomfort.
other uses: The plant can be used as a green manure or cover crop to improve soil health. It is also beneficial for erosion control due to its root system.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Erodium cicutarium
common names: Redstem Filaree; Heron's Bill; Pinweed
family: Geraniaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Erodium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.2 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(7/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 1 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.2 m
soil preference:
Light (Sandy)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Erodium cicutarium thrives in full sun and well-drained soils but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including poor and sandy soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover can enhance nitrogen availability. Avoid overwatering as the plant is drought-tolerant. Harvest leaves in early spring for the best flavor. Store harvested leaves in a cool, dry place to
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for severe infestations.
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