Erodium cicutarium

Erodium cicutarium whole plant

Illustration Erodium cicutarium0

Erodium cicutarium flowers - Keila

Erodium cicutarium 3246

Erodium cicutarium MHNT

File:Erodium-Cicutarium-Seed-Unwinding-Under-Microscope- Real-Time.webm Erodium cicutarium, commonly known as redstem filaree, redstem stork's bill, or common stork's-bill, is a species of flowering plant in the geranium family (Geraniaceae). It is native to the Mediterranean Basin but has become naturalized in many other regions, including North America, where it is often considered a weed.

Description

Erodium cicutarium is an annual or biennial herb that grows up to 50 cm tall. The plant has a rosette of deeply lobed leaves at the base, with smaller leaves arranged alternately along the stem. The stems are reddish and hairy. The flowers are small, with five pink to purple petals, and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a schizocarp, which splits into five mericarps, each with a long, beak-like projection.

Habitat

Erodium cicutarium thrives in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, roadsides, disturbed areas, and agricultural fields. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought conditions.

Distribution

Originally from the Mediterranean Basin, Erodium cicutarium has spread to many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia. In North America, it is found throughout the United States and Canada.

Ecological Impact

Erodium cicutarium can be invasive in some areas, outcompeting native vegetation and altering local ecosystems. It is particularly problematic in rangelands and natural reserves where it can reduce biodiversity.

Uses

Despite being considered a weed, Erodium cicutarium has some uses. It is edible and can be used in salads or as a potherb. The plant also has some medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Related Species

Erodium cicutarium is closely related to other species in the genus Erodium, such as Erodium moschatum and Erodium botrys.

Related Pages

• Geranium family
• Invasive species
• Mediterranean Basin
• Traditional medicine