Meadow Crane's-bill
Geranium sylvaticum
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Description
Meadow Crane's-bill, or Geranium sylvaticum, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is valued in agroecology and regenerative agriculture for its role as a ground cover and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This plant thrives in meadows, woodland edges, and grasslands, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Its dense foliage helps suppress weeds, and it can improve soil health by preventing erosion. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties. In a food forest, it serves as a herbaceous layer, and it pairs well with other meadow plants like yarrow and clover, which enhance its ecological benefits.
Growing Details
Geranium sylvaticum prefers well-drained, moist soil and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including loamy and sandy soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture. Companion plants such as yarrow and clover can enhance its growth and ecological benefits. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves in early spring for the best quality. Store dried leaves in a cool, dark place
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Geranium sylvaticum</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 Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Meadow Crane's-bill can be consumed in small quantities as a salad green, though they are not commonly used for culinary purposes. They should be harvested young for the best texture and flavor.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Meadow Crane's-bill has been used for its astringent properties to treat wounds and skin conditions. It is also used in herbal medicine to alleviate diarrhea and other digestive issues. The roots and leaves can be prepared as a poultice or infusion. Caution is advised as excessive use can lead to digestive discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural dye, producing a range of colors from its flowers and leaves.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Geranium sylvaticum</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Geranium sylvaticum
common names: Woodland Geranium; Wild Geranium; Wood Cran
family: Geraniaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Geranium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Geranium sylvaticum prefers well-drained, moist soil and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including loamy and sandy soils. For optimal growth, prepare the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture. Companion plants such as yarrow and clover can enhance its growth and ecological benefits. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves in early spring for the best quality. Store dried leaves in a cool, dark place
Potential Disturbances: Geranium sylvaticum is generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids and slugs. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use organic slug deterrents such as crushed eggshells or copper tape. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests.
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