Cut-leaved Geranium
geranium dissectum
Also known as: ["Cut-leaved Cranesbill","Feathery Geranium"]
Overview
A delicate annual or biennial herb with finely dissected leaves and small pink flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Geranium |
| Botanical Name: | Geranium dissectum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; lightly prune year-round as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time to avoid shock.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to just above a leaf node; cut above an outward-facing bud to promote airflow.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, spent flowers, and yellowing leaves to encourage bushier growth and prevent disease.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged parts, shape evenly
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter)
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Geranium dissectum may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. While not highly toxic, the plant can cause discomfort and should be kept out of reach of curious pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Geranium dissectum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort in pets that consume it.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGeranium dissectum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Geranium dissectum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Geranium dissectum grow?
A: It typically grows as an annual or biennial in disturbed soils and open areas.
Q: Does Geranium dissectum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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