Mediterranean stork's-bill (Erodium malacoides)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mediterranean stork's-bill on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Mediterranean stork's-bill
Erodium malacoides, also known as Mallow-leaved Stork's-bill, is a small annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family, valued for its delicate pink or purple flowers with darker veins. Its mallow-like leaves form a basal rosette. It is ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or as a wild plant in dry, sunny meadows.
Native range
Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Care tips
This species prefers full sun to light partial shade and well-drained soils, even poor or sandy ones, as it is highly adaptable. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings; it is quite drought-tolerant once established. Avoid excessive soil moisture, which can lead to root rot. It does not require regular fertilization, but a slightly enriched soil when planting will promote its development.
How to save a dying Mediterranean stork's-bill
- Warning signs
- Yellow or wilting leaves, soft stems. May indicate overwatering or lack of light.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, repot into dry soil.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging is its worst enemy, quickly rotting the roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the roots are not completely rotted. Act quickly when symptoms appear.