Geranium robertianum - (image 1 of 5)
Taxonomy
Family: Geraniaceae
Habitat
Sandy, gravelly soil. Rocky woods. Adapted to disturbance
Associates
Various
Distribution
Distribution is somewhat limited in the US. It is mainly found in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. Regarded as a weed in WA state. Also native to Europe and Asia.
Morphology
Annual or biennial. Leaves with 3-5 divisions, deeply pinnatifid to pinnately lobed, the divisions complete, green to red. Stems hairy, reddish. Flowers pink striped with white, 1/2" wide, petals 5, born in pairs from the axils of leaves. Fruit a beaked capsule.
Notes
Flowers May to September
Wetland indicator: Upland
This plant is rare and threatened in some states and considered a noxious weed in others. Some regard it as an alien plant but there is evidence that native and non-native forms exist. It is capable of spreading rapidly in disturbed soil but without disturbance it appears to decrease rapidly in number. Makes a good house plant that is easy to grow in almost pure perlite in a bright location. Regular potting soil will rot it right off it's roots. Will turn red if grown in full sun.
Bibliography
Swink, F. and G. Wilhelm. 1994. Plants of the Chicago Region.
Indiana Academy of Science. The Morton Arboretum. Lisle, Illinois.
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Michael Hough © 2004 |