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Description
Erodium Laciniatum, commonly known as the Cut-Leaf Filaree or Lacy Erodium, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, but it has become naturalized worldwide. It belongs to the Geranium family (Geraniaceae) and is often mistaken for a Geranium due to its similar appearance. The plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and 60 cm wide, forming a basal rosette of leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Erodium |
Appearance
The leaves of Erodium Laciniatum are deeply divided into narrow segments, giving it its lacy appearance. The leaves are green and can be 5-15 cm long. The plant produces pink to lilac flowers that bloom from April to July. The flowers have five petals and are approximately 1 cm wide. The fruit of the plant is a long, narrow capsule that contains small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Erodium Laciniatum prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not overwater.
Fertilization: Erodium Laciniatum does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal.
Sunlight: Erodium Laciniatum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erodium Laciniatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. Pests that can affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Habitat
Erodium Laciniatum thrives in dry, sunny areas and can be found in meadows, pastures, fields, and disturbed areas. It can also grow in rocky or sandy soil and is commonly found along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erodium Laciniatum a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces nectar-rich flowers that can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Erodium Laciniatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should Erodium Laciniatum be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Q: Is Erodium Laciniatum toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not known to be toxic to pets or humans.
Related Plants
- Erodium Cicutarium
- Erodium Moschatum
- Erodium Reichardii
References
- “Erodium laciniatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Erodium laciniatum.” Plant Finder. Accessed 5 May 2021. https://www.gardenia.net.
- “Erodium laciniatum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 5 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk.
