Bicknell's cranesbill
Geranium bicknellii

Family: Geraniaceae

What it is like

Geranium bicknellii is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Woodlands or open fields.

Northern N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, south to Michigan, New York and Utah.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - raw or cooked. Not choice. Flowers - raw.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The whole plant, but especially the roots, is astringent, salve and styptic. It can be used as a gargle for sore throats.

Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.

Salve: Soothes and heals damaged skin.

Styptic: An astringent that stops bleeding by contracting the blood vessels.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any moderately fertile retentive soil in a sunny position. Tolerates a range of soil types. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Annual/Biennial

Hardiness: 0-0

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

G. carolinianum longipes. G. longipes. G. nemorale.