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Description
Erodium Gruinum, commonly known as Filaree, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Geraniaceae. It is a small annual plant native to Europe, but now widely distributed in North America, South America, and Asia. Filaree is a low-growing plant with small pink or lavender flowers that bloom from April to June. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine for centuries, with its roots and leaves being used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, stomach aches, and bleeding.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Erodium |
| Species | Gruinum |
Appearance
Filaree is a small annual plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a small, branching stem with lobed, hairy leaves that are green in color. The plant produces small, pink or lavender flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals and bloom in clusters from April to June. After flowering, the plant produces long, curved seed pods that resemble a crane’s bill.
Care Guide
Filaree is an easy plant to care for and grow. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Filaree prefers well-draining soil and does not require much water. Water the plant only when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Filaree does not require fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil if you want to promote growth.
- Soil: Filaree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be sandy or loamy and rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Filaree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Filaree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Filaree is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, make sure to water the plant from below and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Filaree is native to Europe but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, South America, and Asia. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Filaree an edible plant?
A: Yes, Filaree is edible and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The leaves and roots of the plant are often used to treat various ailments.
Q: How often should I water Filaree?
A: Water Filaree only when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not require much water.
Q: Can Filaree grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, Filaree can grow in partial shade but prefers full sun.
Q: What is the blooming period of Filaree?
A: Filaree blooms from April to June.
Related Plants
- Erodium Botrys
- Erodium Cicutarium
- Erodium Moschatum
- Erodium Texanum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/erodium_cicutarium.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/erodium-gruinum-filaree
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ergr
