Giant herb-robert (Geranium maderense)

Also known as: Madiera cranesbill

The sticky catchfly (Lychnis viscaria) is a notable ornamental plant known for its vibrant pink and lilac flowers, which add a splash of color to garden beds and borders. Its stems and sepals are covered in sticky hairs that trap insects, aiding in pollination.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Giant herb-robert

Lifespan

Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

20 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Pink

Images of Giant herb-robert

Quickly Identify Giant herb-robert

Large, deeply dissected dark green leaves creating a dense mound.

Mauve-pink flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, on a 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall inflorescence.

Purple hairs on flowers and stems that glisten in the light.

Purple hairs maintain decorative value post-blooming.

Scientific Classification of Giant herb-robert

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Geraniales

Family

Geranium

Genus

Geraniums

Species

Giant herb-robert

Planting and Growing of Giant herb-robert

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Giant herb-robert?

Geranium maderense requires around 500 ml of water each time you water it. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. The key is to maintain consistent moisture without drowning the roots. Check the top inch of soil; it should feel slightly damp, not dry or soggy.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Giant herb-robert? ›

What should I do if my Giant herb-robert is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Giant herb-robert? ›

How to save an overwatered Giant herb-robert? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Giant herb-robert?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Geranium maderense prefers partial to full sun exposure, optimizing for 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Sufficient light aids in maintaining vibrant blooms and robust growth, providing energy for healthy photosynthesis and resilience.

Ideal Lighting Duration ›

Location for Optimal Lighting ›

Benefits of Adequate Lighting ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Giant herb-robert?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Geranium maderense thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range ensures that the plant receives enough warmth to foster healthy growth while avoiding extremes that could hinder its development. Ideal temperatures help in sustaining the plant’s natural growing cycle, promoting vibrant foliage, and encouraging prolific flowering. Proper temperature management is crucial to maintain the plant's health and vitality.

What Soil is Best for Giant herb-robert?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Geranium maderense thrives in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Proper drainage ensures the roots receive enough oxygen, promoting healthy growth and vibrant bloom cycles. Rich organic matter in the soil enhances the plant's growth by supplying essential nutrients. This leads to lush foliage and robust flowering during the blooming season. Slight moisture retention is crucial for this plant to maintain hydration without waterlogging. This balance helps the plant withstand dry spells while ensuring adequate nutrient uptake.

How to Fertilize Giant herb-robert?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Geranium maderense, the recommended fertilizer amount should be moderate. Use about half the strength of a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release granular type to provide essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant. Over-fertilization could harm the plant, while under-fertilization can lead to poor growth.

How to Prune Giant herb-robert?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Begin by inspecting the plant for any dead, discolored, or damaged leaves. Removing these will help the plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth and will improve the overall appearance of your Geranium maderense. To maintain a compact and bushy form, pinch back any stems that appear leggy or elongated. This encourages side branching, resulting in a fuller plant with more flowers. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Giant herb-robert plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Collect seeds from the plant after flowering. Clean them and dry them before sowing. Use a seed tray filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface and cover lightly with soil.

In the early spring, select healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings. Use pruning shears to cut 4-6 inches from the tip. Remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone before planting in moist potting mix.

In spring, dig up mature plants. Use sharp tools to separate the root mass into smaller sections, each with a portion of roots and shoots. Replant divisions immediately in prepared soil, water thoroughly, and keep shaded until established.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Giant herb-robert plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Geranium maderense should be repotted when you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or circling the soil surface. Additionally, if you observe that water isn’t soaking through the soil effectively or if the plant looks lackluster despite regular care, it's time for a new pot.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A pot that is too large can lead to overwatering, while a small pot may restrict root growth. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot, allowing the plant to thrive.

Choose a well-draining loamy soil mix rich in organic matter. This soil type balances moisture retention and drainage, essential for preventing soggy roots. Adding perlite or sand can enhance the aeration, ensuring your Geranium maderense has a healthy growing environment.