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Herb Robert
Geranium robertianum
47.24, -122.4
Field Notes
Description:
Prostrate to upright, unpleasant-smelling. Stems hairy. Leaves triangular, lower leaves 1–2 in. wide, palmately divided into 3 leaflets that are pinnately lobed. Flower stalks carry 2 flowers with rounded petals 1/3–1/2 in. long, reddish or pink with white veins. A noxious weed originally introduced as a garden plant; suppresses native species in west-side forests and is spreading rapidly.
In traditional herbalism, Herb Robert was used as a remedy for toothache and nosebleeds.[1] Freshly picked leaves have an odor resembling burning tires when crushed, and if they are rubbed on the body the smell is said to repel mosquitoes. The active ingredients are tannins, a bitter compound called geraniin, and essential oils. It was carried to attract good luck, and due to its analogical association with storks, to enhance fertility.
Habitat:
Grows in moist open to shady sites up to 4000 ft. West-Side Forest, Disturbed.
Notes:
I already have Herb Robert in my collection, but I couldn't resist posting again. They are lovely little flowers and very photogenic. :-)
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