Musky stork's bill - Erodium moschatum (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Musky stork's bill

Also known as: White-stem heron's-bill, Musky filaree, Musky storksbill, Musk stork's-bill, Musk filaree

Musky stork's bill (Erodium moschatum) is a flowering herb in the geranium family. It is a weedy annual that will grow to 38 cm tall. It forms a light green rosette and displays a faint musky odor. Pretty pinkish purple flowers bloom in clusters from summer through fall. It produces a distinctive fruit that is long and resembles a stork's bill. It is commonly found in meadows and fields.

Scientific classification

Species

Musky stork's bill (Erodium moschatum)

Geraniums, bridal wreaths, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

60 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green, White

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Musky stork's bill

Distribution of Musky stork's bill

Distribution Map

Musky stork's bill, also known by its scientific name Erodium moschatum, is a plant natively distributed across the Mediterranean region, parts of the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. It has been introduced to a variety of regions including South America, North America, Africa, East Asia, and Oceania, where it has established populations in several temperate and subtropical areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste places, rocky ground

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Musky stork's bill

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from a Mediterranean climate, musky stork's bill thrives with moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering suffices, complemented by natural rainfall, aiding its health and seasonal growth. This herbaceous species is commonly grown outdoors, adapting well to conditions where water is present but not abundant.

Fertilize: Musky stork's bill thrives with Balanced Nutrition or High Nitrogen Fertilizers, applying a quarter-strength dose monthly during the growing season. Reduce fertilization in dormancy, ensuring moist soil beforehand. Use gloves and measure accurately to prevent overdose, adjusting nutrient levels as musky stork's bill matures for optimal growth.

Pruning: Musky stork's bill is an aromatic annual with finely divided leaves and small, purple-pink flowers. Prune it in early to late spring to remove dead stems and encourage healthy growth. This practice enhances airflow, reduces disease risk, and promotes vigorous development and blooms.

Propagation: Propagate musky stork's bill in Spring using sowing techniques. Successful propagation is indicated by new growth and stable roots. Provide well-drained soil and ensure adequate spacing for optimal conditions.

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