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Wood Geranium
Geranium
Mon, 01/07/2008 - 19:44 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Geranium maculatum
Zones:
3-8
Other Names:
Crane's bill, Spotted Geranium, Spotted Cranesbill, Wood Geranium, Spotted Cranesbill, Wild Cranesbill, Crowfoot, Dove's-foot, Old Maid's Nightcap, Shameface, hardy geranium, wild geranium
These beautiful North American natives are among my favorite flowers.
Propagation:
These geraniums transplant well and also grow well from seed. They will grow well in sun if kept moist but prefer shady areas. If you do plant yours in the sun, be aware that they will go dormant during very hot, dry periods, but will often come back when conditions improve. The soil should be rich and humusy, like the woodland floor. If you choose the right spot, your geraniums will grow and spread with little attention from you.
For use as a ground cover, space the plants about 20 inches apart. They will spread.
Flowers bloom for a very long period, but this plant does not rebloom. Therefore, deadheading is not necessary to encourage more blooming, but you may want to do it if you want to discourage spread.
History and Folklore:
The word Geranium comes from the Greek geranos meaning "crane".
The Wild Geranium rhizome is rich in tannini and was used by early American settlers to tan hides.
Harvesting & Storage:
Leaves and roots should both be harvested just before the plant flowers and then dried for later use. Alternatively, the rhizome/root can be harvested in the autumn.
Hang to dry or lay on a screen until firm yet flexible. Seal in a glass jar and store in a cool dry place.
Place small canvas bags over the seed heads (like the little drawstring herb bags) to catch the seeds when they ripen.
Household Use:
Magical Attributes:
A tea of Wild Geranium flowers is an effective counter to many love spells. A bit of the root can be carried as an amuleti to attract happiness and prosperity. It can also be used in spells to encourage conception, successful pregnancy and safe childbirth, especially in sympathetic spells.
Healing Attributes:
Infusions may be made of any part of the plant for the treatment of diarrhea, dyssentery, irritable bowel, cholera, kidney problems, internal bleeding and many other issues that call for the use of an astringent. It is also antiseptic and may be applied externally for issues involving pus, discharge and inflammations. It can be used as a douche or gargle to this affect if called for. The powdered, dried root can be used as a styptic.
Although the entire plant is effective, the rhizome contains the highest concentration of tannini and healing properties.
Culinary Use:
Practical Kitchen Witchery: