Shiny Geranium
Geranium lucidum • Class B |
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Family Name: | Geraniaceae family (jer-ay-nee-AY-see-ee) | |
Common: | Geranium family | |
Genus: |
Geranium (jer-AY-nee-um) Meaning: From the Greek meaning crane; referring to the beak-like fruit |
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Species: |
lucidum (loo-sid-um) Meaning: Bright, clear lustrous |
Description: |
Shiny Geranium is a low growing plant between 10 to 12 inches high that can tolerate either sun or shade. Seedlings sprout during the first fall rains and continue to grow through fall and winter, forming large patches that begin to bloom in April and May. Stems are usually tinged red and have shiny green leaves that are deeply lobed and about 1 ½ inches across. Leaves turn vivid red in summer and fall. Its five petaled flowers are small, pink, and grow in pairs at the same height, or in amongst the leaves. Each seed capsule produces five seeds that are forcefully ejected when ripe. The ability to propel seeds allos this plant to spread in an upward direction, into tree-trunkcrevices, or up steep hillsides. |
Why Is it a Noxious Weed? |
Shiny geranium has the ability to spread very quickly and is difficult to control. Seeds can germinate in a variety of habitats. |
Where Does it Grow? |
It prefers shade, but will grow in partial to full sun. It tends to invade undisturbed forest understories and form monocultures that replace native plant communities. |
Facts: |
Shiny Geranium can produce up to 5 generations in one year. It establishes quickly in early spring and dominates a site by pushing out man other early season plants. |
Control Options: |
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More Information: |
Download our Flyer or visit Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Here. Photo by Leo Michels
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More Pictures: |