Geranium pilosum
Geranium pilosumfam. Geraniaceae
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Pl. 3F13 — Geranium pilosum
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IOverview
Overview
Geranium pilosum, a perennial herb native to the Cape Provinces and several regions in Australia including New South Wales, New Zealand (North and South Islands), Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria, is known for its edible and medicinal properties. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Standing at a height of 0.3 meters, it is recognizable by its hairy leaves and stems. The root is the part used for consumption, making this versatile plant both ornamental and useful in culinary applications.
Quick answers
What is Geranium pilosum?
Geranium pilosum, a perennial herb native to the Cape Provinces and several regions in Australia including New South Wales, New Zealand (North and South Islands), Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria, is known for its edible and medicinal properties.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiondecoction
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Geranium pilosum thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows to about 0.3 meters tall and can be propagated through root cuttings. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to areas including the Cape Provinces, New South Wales, New Zealand North and South, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria. The edible parts include the roots.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Geranium pilosum for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care and enjoy the process of growing Skip as a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality potting soil, and seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are mild and there's no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost is past, or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and place in a sunny spot. Water gently to avoid disturbing the roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Provide full sun exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage more blooms and maintain plant shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune, and waiting too long before transplanting from indoors.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Geranium pilosum is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often dug up and used fresh or dried for later use. Roots are typically cooked to enhance their flavor and texture. Skip if raw consumption is preferred.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 3 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native· 3 introduced
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces, New South Wales, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia
introduced:California, Oregon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Geraniaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Geraniaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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