Storksbill

erodium glandulosum

Also known as: ["Glandular Storksbill","Stork's Bill"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Erodium Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous plant in the Geraniaceae family, known for its distinctive seed pods resembling a stork's bill.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Erodium
Botanical Name: Erodium glandulosum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed 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; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

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

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.

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 some organic matter

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

Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme heat or cold.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  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 the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

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, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants; shape as needed.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; 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.

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 when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause root damage or leaf drop in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Erodium glandulosum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can disrupt photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Erodium glandulosum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Erodium glandulosum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can affect Erodium glandulosum when exposed to excessive moisture, leading to tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Erodium glandulosum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Erodium glandulosum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Erodium glandulosum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human handling or consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Erodium glandulosum toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Erodium glandulosum?

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

Q: Does Erodium glandulosum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

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)"]
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