Redstem filaree
erodium cicutarium
Also known as: ["Storksbill","Common filaree","Herbe aux oiseaux"]
Overview
A widespread annual or biennial herbaceous plant with reddish stems and deeply lobed leaves, often found in disturbed areas and gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Erodium |
| Botanical Name: | Erodium cicutarium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when growth becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure good air circulation indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, not required in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; use bottom heat for faster germination; keep cuttings humid.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead growth; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter increase).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or cloches; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Erodium cicutarium. The toxic compounds in the plant can cause digestive upset, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Erodium cicutarium can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicErodium cicutarium contains small amounts of toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erodium cicutarium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant spread?
A: It spreads via seeds that have a distinctive beak-like structure that can burrow into the soil.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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