Herb-Robert

geranium robertianum

Also known as: ["Storksbill","Feverwort","St. Robert"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Geranium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A delicate, herbaceous perennial with finely divided leaves and small pink flowers, often found in shaded, damp habitats.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Geranium
Botanical Name: Geranium robertianum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil with some moisture retention

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for overall health.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F)

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand

Hormone

Optional, but can help speed up rooting

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants; shape as needed.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.

Solution: Protect from drafts; move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Geranium robertianum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Geranium robertianum can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

Leaf spots on Geranium robertianum are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthesis, weaken the plant, and lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Geranium robertianum due to excessive moisture, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Geranium robertianum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Geranium robertianum can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Geranium robertianum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Herb-Robert safe for pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.

Q: Does Herb-Robert attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.

Q: How should Herb-Robert be cared for?

A: It thrives in shaded, damp conditions with minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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