Tuberous Cranesbill
geranium tuberosum
Also known as: ["Tuberous Geranium","Tuberous Crane's Bill"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with tuberous roots, known for its delicate white or pale pink flowers and finely divided leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Geranium |
| Botanical Name: | Geranium tuberosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent tuber rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
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; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
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 soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from air vents; monitor nighttime temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy tubers or stems.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant cuttings or divide tubers.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; 3–6 months to establish a new plant.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or yellowing leaves.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for tuber growth.
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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; 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 to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Geranium tuberosum may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The roots and leaves are the toxic components, but the plant is not highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Geranium tuberosum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The roots and leaves are the most likely parts to cause symptoms, but severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGeranium tuberosum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, though the toxicity is generally low and not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Geranium tuberosum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Geranium tuberosum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Geranium tuberosum suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided it has adequate drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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