Geranium dissectum

'Cut-Leafed Cranesbill'

Geraniaceae: a straggly, hairy annual found on disturbed ground and cultivated soils, to 45cm in height. The flowers are about 10mm across with pink, notched petals, on short stalks, flowering from May-September. The leaves are deeply dissected to the base, the lobes narrow and jagged. Generally common throughout although scarce in Northern Scotland. Native to most of Europe, including Britain, south to North Africa and east to Iran.

USES:

The root can be cooked in time of famine food, used when all else fails.

The whole plant, but especially the roots, is rich in tannin. It has antiseptic, highly astringent, styptic and tonic properties. An infusion of the whole plant, or of the roots alone, is used in the treatment of diarrhoea (especially for children and the elderly), dysentery, cholera, gastro-enteritis, internal bleeding, and excessive menstruation. Externally, it is used in the treatment of purulent wounds, haemorrhoids, thrush, vaginal discharges, and inflammations of the mouth. It is best to harvest the roots as the plant comes into flower since they are then at their most active medicinally. The leaves should be harvested before the plant sets seed. Both are dried for later use.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Succeeds in any moderately fertile retentive soil in a sunny position. Sow seeds in spring in a cold frame or greenhouse. Easy.

HARVESTED:

APPROX. 45+ SEEDS