Herb Robert, Robert geranium

Geranium robertianum

Physical Characteristics

Geranium robertianum is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to October, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insect. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia to N. Africa, east to.Japan and the Himalayas

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedgerow; North Wall. In. East Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antirheumatic Astringent Diuretic Homeopathy Vulnerary Herb Robert is little used in modern herbalism, but is occasionally employed as an astringent to halt bleeding, treat diarrhoea etc in much the same way as G. maculatum[254]. The leaves are antirheumatic, astringent, mildly diuretic and vulnerary[7, 9, 21, 222, 238]. Modern research has shown that the leaves can lower blood sugar levels and so it can be useful in the treatment of diabetes[244]. An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of bleeding, stomach ailments, kidney infections, jaundice etc[222]. Externally, a wash or poultice is applied to swollen and painful breasts[222], rheumatic joints[7], bruises, bleeding etc[9]. It is best to use the entire plant, including the roots[9]. The plant can be harvested at any time from late spring to early autumn and is usually used fresh[9, 238]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the plant[9]. Details of uses are not given in this report[K].

Known Hazards

None known