Geranium wallichianum
Family: Geraniaceae
What it is like
Geranium wallichianum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 1.5 m (5ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Forests, shrubberies and open slopes, 2400 - 3600 metres.
E. Asia - Himalayas from Afghanistan to Bhutan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The plant has astringent properties. A decoction of the root, mixed with the bark of Prunus cerasoides, is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers. It has been used as a cure for toothache and has been applied externally to the eyes. The juice of the plant is applied to fresh cuts to stem the bleeding. A paste of the plant is used as a poultice to relieve joint pains.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Odontalgic: Treats toothache (temporary measure only) and other problems of the teeth and gums.
Poultice: A moist, usually warm or hot, mass of plant material applied to the skin in the treatment of burns etc.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Other
Rating:
The root contains 30% tannin, it is used as a dye. A good dense ground cover plant. Plants should be spaced about 60cm apart each way.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Tannin: An astringent substance obtaied from plants, it is used medicinally, as a dye and mordant, stabilizer in pesticide etc.
Ground cover: Ground Cover
How it is grown
Succeeds in any moderately fertile retentive soil in a sunny position. Tolerates a wide range of soil types. Prefers a position that is cool and moist in the summer but is not heavily shaded. Plants are hardy to at least -20°c. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits. Some named forms have been selected for their ornamental value.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. Division in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist