Long-stalked cranesbill (Geranium columbinum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Long-stalked cranesbill on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Long-stalked cranesbill
Geranium columbinum, also known as Long-stalked Crane's-bill, is an annual or biennial plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family, native to Europe and North Africa. It is characterized by its small, pinkish-purple flowers and deeply lobed leaves resembling a pigeon's foot. It's ideal for rockeries, path edges, or as a wild plant in naturalistic garden settings.
Native range
Europe, North Africa and Western Asia.
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, although it's quite tolerant of various soil types. Watering should be moderate, allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in rather poor conditions. A common mistake is planting it in very heavy and compact clay soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Long-stalked cranesbill
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or blackened stems. May indicate overwatering or disease.
- First aid
- Inspect roots for rot. Remove damaged parts. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main killer. Also lack of light or poor soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Remove damaged parts and correct watering. It's quite resilient.