Bigroot Geranium
geranium macrorrhizum
Also known as: ["Bigroot Cranesbill","Rock Geranium"]
Overview
A hardy, spreading perennial with fragrant foliage and pinkish-white flowers, native to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","deer resistant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Geranium |
| Botanical Name: | Geranium macrorrhizum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or shaded woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal; adjust based on season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in dappled shade outdoors; protect from intense midday sun indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions down to 50°F (10°C) but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early fall)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or leaf node; thin out crowded growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overcrowded stems to improve air circulation and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape for airflow; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger 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 fresh soil mix; 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 without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Geranium macrorrhizum. The plant's essential oils can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Geranium macrorrhizum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils. While not highly toxic, large quantities may cause temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGeranium macrorrhizum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's essential oils may irritate the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, leading to discomfort without posing serious systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Geranium macrorrhizum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and fragrant foliage.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can Geranium macrorrhizum grow in shade?
A: Yes, it is shade tolerant and performs well in partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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