Shiny Cranesbill

geranium lucidum

Also known as: ["Shiny Geranium","Glossy Cranesbill"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Geranium Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing herbaceous perennial with glossy, dark green leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container on a patio
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; lightly prune year-round to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light, especially in summer.

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

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); wilting despite moist soil (root rot); stunted growth (poor soil quality).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

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

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, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; thrives in moderate warmth with good air circulation.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a fan for air circulation in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; trim leggy stems; remove dead or yellowing leaves.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth and spent flowers to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape as needed.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill 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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once 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; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; soil dries out faster, increasing water needs.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Geranium lucidum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Geranium lucidum can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Geranium lucidum are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Geranium lucidum due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Geranium lucidum. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but caution is advised due to individual sensitivities.

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

if eaten

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

In dogs, ingestion of Geranium lucidum can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but symptoms may occur in some individuals.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Geranium lucidum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable, particularly in sensitive individuals.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
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 Geranium lucidum suitable for shady areas?

A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade.

Q: How often should it be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does it attract wildlife?

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

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Redstem filaree
View
Siberian Cranesbill
View
Madeira Cranesbill
View
Orange Geranium
View