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Hedgerow Cranesbill

Geranium pyrenaicum

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Geraniales
Family:
Geraniaceae (Cranesbill)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
30 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Cliffs, gardens, hedgerows, roadsides, rocky places.

Flower:
֍
Pink, 5 petals
 
Pink to purple, 5 deeply notched petals, up to 2cm.
Fruit:
Beak-shaped pods in the shape of a crane's bill, up to 2cm in length.
Leaves:
Dark green, simple but divided leaves, rounder in shape than most Cranesbills.
Other Names:
Hedgerow Geranium, Mountain Cranesbill, Mountain Geranium, Rock Harrow.
Frequency (UK):
Common  

Other Information

Summary

Geranium pyrenaicum, also known as mountain cranesbill or rock harrow, is a species of flowering plant in the geranium family (Geraniaceae). It is native to Europe and is found in a variety of habitats, including rocky cliffs, cliffs, and rocky slopes. The plant is known for its deeply lobed leaves and small, pink or purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. It is a perennial plant, meaning it will come back year after year. It is often grown in gardens for its attractive foliage and flowers. Geranium pyrenaicum is similar in appearance to Geranium dissectum, but it has larger leaves and flowers.

Blog

If you're looking for a low-maintenance and attractive flowering plant for your garden, you might want to consider the Hedgerow Cranesbill, also known as Geranium pyrenaicum. This hardy perennial is native to Europe and is known for its vibrant pink or purple blooms that bloom in late spring to early summer.

One of the great things about the Hedgerow Cranesbill is its versatility. It can grow in a range of soils, from well-drained to moist, and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. This makes it a great option for gardeners who want to add some color to a shady area of their yard, or who live in regions with variable weather conditions.

In terms of maintenance, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require a lot of care. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and will continue to grow and bloom even in tough conditions. However, it's a good idea to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms, and to prune it back after flowering to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.

Another great thing about the Hedgerow Cranesbill is its ornamental value. The plant's delicate and intricate flowers are eye-catching and add a touch of beauty to any garden. The leaves of the plant are also attractive, with a beautiful lobed shape that is soft and velvety to the touch. The plant itself is compact and will grow to a height of around 30 cm, making it a great option for ground covers, borders, or rock gardens.

In conclusion, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a wonderful perennial that is easy to grow, low-maintenance, and versatile. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this plant is a great option for adding some color and beauty to your garden.

The Hedgerow Cranesbill is also an excellent choice for wildlife gardens as it is a great source of food for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Its bright pink or purple flowers are rich in nectar and will attract a range of beneficial insects to your garden. Not only will this help to support your local pollinator populations, but it will also increase the overall health and productivity of your garden.

Another great aspect of the Hedgerow Cranesbill is its ability to naturalize. This means that once established, the plant will spread on its own and create a dense ground cover. This can be an especially attractive feature for gardeners who want to create a natural-looking landscape without having to put in a lot of effort.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is also a useful plant in traditional medicine. Its leaves and roots have been used for centuries to treat a range of ailments, including wounds, skin conditions, and digestive problems. It is important to note that while the plant has medicinal properties, it should not be used without the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Finally, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a great option for gardeners who are looking for a hardy plant that will come back year after year. Unlike annuals that need to be replanted every season, perennials will return year after year, providing a long-lasting source of beauty and interest in your garden. With its low-maintenance requirements and ability to naturalize, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a great investment for any gardener.

It's also worth mentioning that the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a great option for gardeners who are looking to create a low-maintenance garden. This plant is tough and can handle a variety of weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners who don't have a lot of time to dedicate to their garden. Additionally, because it is drought-tolerant, it can thrive in gardens with limited water resources, making it a great option for gardeners who live in regions with water restrictions.

Another great aspect of the Hedgerow Cranesbill is its ability to pair well with other plants. Whether you're planting it in a border, rock garden, or wildflower meadow, this plant will complement other perennials and shrubs, creating a beautiful and harmonious garden.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is also a valuable plant in the kitchen. Its leaves and flowers can be used in salads, soups, and stews to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. Additionally, the plant is high in antioxidants, which are important for good health and wellness.

Finally, it's important to note that the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a resilient plant that is resistant to pests and diseases. This means that it is less likely to be affected by common garden pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

In conclusion, the Hedgerow Cranesbill is a beautiful, versatile, and low-maintenance plant that is ideal for a range of garden styles and conditions. Whether you're looking to add color, attract wildlife, or create a low-maintenance garden, this plant is a great option to consider. So why not add it to your garden today and enjoy its beauty for years to come!


Video

Hedgerow Cranesbill filmed at these 2 locations:
  • Bourton-on-the-water, Gloucestershire: 24th June 2023
  • Clapton-on-the-hill, Gloucestershire: 26th June 2023
 

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Distribution Map

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