Shining geranium
Geranium lucidum
Family: Geraniaceae
What it is like
Geranium lucidum is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to August. 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: basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Shady rocks, walls and hedgebanks, on calcareous soils.
Britain, Europe and N. Africa to the Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is diuretic and astringent.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in any moderately fertile retentive soil in a sunny position. Most members of this genus tolerate a wide range of soil types, though this species is said to require a calcareous soil. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ.
Best place to grow: Hedgerow; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist