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Geranium pilosum

Geranium pilosumfam. Geraniaceae
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medicinaledibleperennialedibleedible rootmedicinalnative australiaperennial
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Geranium pilosum (Geranium pilosum) — botanical photograph
Pl. 3F13 — Geranium pilosum
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Overview

Geranium pilosum, a perennial herb belonging to the Geraniaceae family, is native to the Cape Provinces and has been introduced to several regions in Australia including New South Wales, New Zealand (North and South Islands), Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Standing at a height of 0.3 meters, Geranium pilosum is recognizable by its hairy leaves and stems. The root of this plant 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, making them suitable for both raw and cooked consumption. While the plant is primarily known for its culinary uses, it also has medicinal properties, although caution should be exercised when using it for any health-related purposes.

Quick answers

What is Geranium pilosum?

Geranium pilosum, a perennial herb belonging to the Geraniaceae family, is native to the Cape Provinces and has been introduced to several regions in Australia including New South Wales, New Zealand (North and South Islands), Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria.

Compare with:Native Carrot→Cut-Leafed Cranesbill→Pelargonium triste→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

2 drafts
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Evening Calm
sleep
tea
Traditional bedtime infusion.
Digestive Harmony
digestion
decoction
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

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. 1

    What you'll need

    A small pot, quality potting soil, and seeds or young plants.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when temperatures are mild and there's no risk of frost.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the container has drainage holes.

  4. 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. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist and place in a sunny spot. Water gently to avoid disturbing the roots.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Provide full sun exposure.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune lightly after flowering to encourage more blooms and maintain plant shape.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune, and waiting too long before transplanting from indoors.

VI

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
VII

Distribution

9 native · 3 introduced
Distribution 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
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Geranium pilosum (Geranium pilosum) — botanical photograph
Geranium pilosum (Geranium pilosum)
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See also

6 related

Plants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Geraniaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.

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