Cut-Leafed Cranesbill, Cutleaf geranium

Geranium dissectum

Physical Characteristics

Geranium dissectum is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. 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.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, south to N. Africa and east to Iran.

Habitats

Meadow; Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked. A famine food, used when all else fails[177].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Astringent Cholera Dysentery Styptic Tonic The whole plant, but especially the roots, is rich in tannin[4]. It is antiseptic, highly astringent, styptic and tonic[4]. An infusion of the whole plant, or of the roots alone, is used in the treatment of diarrhoea (especially for children and the elderly), dysentery, cholera, gastro-enteritis, internal bleeding, excessive menstruation etc[4]. Externally, it is used in the treatment of purulent wounds, haemorrhoids, thrush, vaginal discharges, inflammations of the mouth etc[238]. It is best to harvest the roots as the plant comes into flower since they are then at their most active medicinally[4]. The leaves should be harvested before the plant sets seed[4]. Both are dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known