Herb-Robert

Scientific Name: 
Geranium robertianum

Herb-Robert is a type of crane's-bill that is found in a variety of habitats including woodland, hedgerows, rocky or exposed areas, scree slopes and coastal areas. Look for it in areas of shade away from acidic soils. The small pink flowers of Herb-Robert mainly appear between May and September and its leaves emit an unpleasant mousy scent.

How to identify: 
Herb-Robert has five-petalled, pink flowers, and reddish stems. The deeply divided, lobed leaves are also tinged with red.
Where to find it: 
Widespread.
How people can help: 

The loss of many of our natural habitats in the countryside mean that the flowers and plants in our gardens provide vital food and shelter for a range of wildlife including butterflies, bees, birds and small mammals. To encourage wildlife into your garden, try planting native species such as Herb-Robert. To find out more about wildlife-friendly gardening, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.

Statistics: 
Height: up to 30cm
Conservation status: 
Common.
Did you know?: 
Herb-Robert was once used to treat nosebleeds and headaches, as a tonic for tummy upsets, as an antiseptic to help heal wounds, and even as a mosquito repellent.
Seasons: 
Spring
Summer
Autumn
When to see
Start date: 
May
End date: 
September
Image: 
Herb-Robert - Zsuzsanna Bird