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Description
Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning, also known as Bloody Cranesbill, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geranium genus. This plant is native to Europe, and it is commonly found in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It has pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The name “Shepherd’s Warning” comes from the belief that when the flowers are a deep pink, it is a sign that rain is on the way.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
The Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant grows up to 30-50 cm tall and has a spread of 30-60 cm. It has lobed leaves that are green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers of this plant are pinkish-purple and have five petals that are 2-2.5 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, and they attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in both acidic and alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce the number of flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by the following pests and diseases:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves of the plant. Use slug pellets or copper tape to keep them away.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause white patches on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
- Leaf spot: This bacterial disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a bactericide if necessary.
Habitat
The Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant is native to Europe and can be found in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Geranium Sanguineum Shepherd’s Warning plant toxic?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Can I grow this plant in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container as long as it has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune this plant?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
Q: Can I propagate this plant from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium sylvaticum
- Geranium pratense
- Geranium phaeum
References
- “Geranium sanguineum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b366.
- “Geranium sanguineum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16292/Geranium-sanguineum/Details.
- “Geranium sanguineum.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/bloody-cranesbill-geranium-sanguineum-1402379.
