Filaree

Filaree is a common name for several species of plants in the genus Erodium, which belongs to the family Geraniaceae. These plants are often found in temperate regions and are known for their distinctive, often deeply lobed leaves and small, five-petaled flowers.

Description

Filaree plants are typically low-growing annuals or perennials. They have a rosette of basal leaves that are often pinnately divided. The flowers are usually pink, purple, or white and are borne in small clusters. Each flower has five petals and ten stamens. The fruit is a schizocarp, which splits into five mericarps, each containing a single seed. The seeds are equipped with a long, spirally twisted awn that aids in their dispersal.

Species

Some common species of Filaree include:

• Erodium cicutarium - Commonly known as redstem filaree or redstem stork's bill.
• Erodium moschatum - Known as musk stork's bill.
• Erodium botrys - Known as broadleaf filaree.

Habitat

Filaree species are often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and pastures. They thrive in a variety of soil types but prefer well-drained soils. These plants are commonly found in temperate regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.

Ecological Importance

Filaree plants play a significant role in their ecosystems. They provide food for various insects, including bees and butterflies, which are attracted to their flowers. The seeds are also a food source for birds and small mammals. Additionally, filaree plants can help prevent soil erosion due to their ground-covering growth habit.

Uses

Some species of Filaree have been used in traditional medicine for their purported anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. However, their primary use is as forage for livestock, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where other forage plants may not thrive.

Control and Management

In agricultural settings, filaree can be considered a weed due to its ability to spread rapidly and compete with crops. Control methods include mechanical removal, such as mowing or tilling, and the use of herbicides. Integrated pest management strategies are often recommended to effectively manage filaree populations.

Related Pages

• Erodium
• Geraniaceae
• Annual plant
• Perennial plant
• Invasive species