Stinking Erodium
erodium foetidum
Also known as: ["Stinking Heron's Bill","Stinking Storksbill"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant with pungent foliage and small, pinkish flowers, often found in disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Erodium |
| Botanical Name: | Erodium foetidum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly gritty soil such as a mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning annually in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for even nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C) for best results.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before pruning; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased growth first; make clean cuts just above nodes.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and encouraging growth.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop if prolonged 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
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced flowering if temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErodium foetidum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErodium foetidum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErodium foetidum is not considered toxic to humans. It is commonly used as a culinary herb in certain regions, particularly in South America, where it is known for its pungent, lemony flavor.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erodium foetidum edible?
A: The plant is not commonly consumed, and its pungent odor suggests caution; it is best to avoid ingestion unless verified by a specialist.
Q: How does Erodium foetidum spread?
A: It reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or water, and can spread rapidly in favorable conditions.
Q: Does Erodium foetidum require much care?
A: It is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in dry, sunny conditions with minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
