Overview
Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet, also known as Redstem Stork's Bill or Alfilaria, is a flowering plant species in the Geranium family. It is a native plant to Mediterranean Europe but has been naturalized in many parts of the world, especially in North America. This plant is highly adaptable and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, and is often found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, cultivated fields, and pastures.Description
Redstem Stork's Bill is a short-lived perennial herb that grows up to 60cm tall. The plant has thin, wiry stems with a red tinge that branch out from the base. The leaves are finely divided and fern-like, with small leaflets that are usually hairless. The flowers are small and pinkish-purple, with five petals that are fused at the base and have distinctive purple veins. The fruit is a long, pointed capsule that splits into five segments, each containing a single seed.Uses
Redstem Stork's Bill has several traditional medicinal uses. Native Americans used a tea made from the plant to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The plant contains tannins that are believed to have astringent and antidiarrheal properties. It is also reported to have antibacterial properties and has been used to treat cuts and wounds. In addition to its medicinal uses, Redstem Stork's Bill is also used as a forage crop for livestock, especially in arid regions where other forage plants are scarce. It is a valuable source of food for early-season grazing due to its high protein content and palatability.Cultivation
Redstem Stork's Bill is an easy plant to grow and can be propagated by seed. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought-resistant and does not require much water once established. However, it may become invasive in some areas, and its spreading tendencies should be considered before planting.Growth Conditions for Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet
Light: Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum requires full sun exposure to thrive. It does not tolerate shade and needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The more sun it receives, the better it will grow.
Temperature: This plant species can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in areas with mild temperatures, between 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F). It can also easily adapt to temperatures that are hotter or colder than its ideal range, as long as it still receives enough sun exposure.
Soil Requirements: Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum prefers well-draining soils that are not too rich. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils, as long as they are free from excessive moisture. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.5). It can also tolerate soils that are slightly alkaline, but it may not perform as well in these conditions.
Cultivation Methods for Erodium Cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. Bipinnatum Tourlet
Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet is native to the western Mediterranean region, and this plant is commonly known as redstem stork's bill, filaree, or pinweed. It is a perennial plant that can survive in various harsh conditions, including drought, poor soil, and cold temperatures. It is grown from seeds, and it can propagate itself through self-seeding.
In general, Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet requires full sun, and it prefers well-drained, moist soils. Keep the soil moist, but do not overwater, as the roots are susceptible to root rot.
Watering Needs of Erodium Cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. Bipinnatum Tourlet
Water Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet weekly during the growing season. Ensure that the soil stays consistently moist. In case of heavy rainfall, reduce watering. However, during the dry season, you can increase watering or provide supplemental water when needed.
Fertilization of Erodium Cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. Bipinnatum Tourlet
Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet doesn't require any particular fertilizers. However, adding compost to the soil before planting can be beneficial. It is better not to over-fertilize the plant as it can trigger lush, leggy growth, which can weaken the plant’s overall health.
Pruning Erodium Cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. Bipinnatum Tourlet
Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet may require little pruning, but pruning can be done to promote bushy, compact growth. In the case of extensive growth, cut back to half of the length. Do this once the plant has completed its blooming cycle. Additionally, you can deadhead faded blooms to encourage new growth and blooming.
Propagation of Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet
Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet can be propagated by seeds or cuttings but the latter is not very common.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet should be collected when the capsules burst and turn brown. The seeds are tiny and greyish and should be sown immediately in a well-drained, sandy soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not wet and the seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots when they become large enough to handle and then kept in a protected environment until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is only recommended for experienced growers. Erodium cicutarium ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet can be propagated by stem cuttings taken during the summer months. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should include at least one node. The lower leaves should be removed and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before being inserted into a well-drained, sandy soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not wet and the cutting should be kept in a shaded environment until new growth appears, indicating that rooting has taken place. The cutting can then be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet
Like any other plant species, Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. ex Ait. ssp. bipinnatum Tourlet is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of Erodium cicutarium. The disease causes a white powdery growth on the affected parts of the plant, which can reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize. You can manage powdery mildew by removing the affected parts of the plant and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
2. Verticillium wilt: Verticillium wilt is another fungal disease that affects Erodium cicutarium. The disease causes yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. To manage verticillium wilt, remove the affected parts of the plant and destroy them. You can also apply a fungicide to the remaining parts of the plant to prevent the disease's spread.
3. Bacterial blight: Bacterial blight is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves of Erodium cicutarium. The disease causes black or dark brown spots on the leaves, which can cause defoliation. To manage bacterial blight, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent the disease's spread.
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are small insects that feed on the leaves of Erodium cicutarium, causing yellowing and eventual death of the plant. To manage spider mites, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply an insecticide to the remaining parts of the plant.
2. Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are another common pest that affects Erodium cicutarium. The insects feed on the plant's sap, which can cause leaf yellowing and curling. To manage leafhoppers, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply an insecticide to the remaining parts of the plant.
3. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of Erodium cicutarium, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting of the plant. To manage aphids, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply an insecticide to the remaining parts of the plant.
Overall, prevention is key to managing diseases and pests in Erodium cicutarium. Ensure that the plant is grown in optimal conditions, including adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. You should also keep the surrounding area clean and free from debris, which can harbor pests and diseases. Regular monitoring of the plant can also help identify any issues early, ensuring that you can take the necessary measures to manage the problem.
