Silvery cranesbill (Geranium argenteum, Cent. Pl. II: 25 (1756))

Family: Geraniaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Cent. Pl. II: 25 (1756)

Year: 1756

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Geranium

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. France to Slovenia

Description

The Silvery cranesbill, scientifically known as Geranium argenteum, is a captivating plant that has fascinated botanists and plant enthusiasts since it was first documented by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1756. This exquisite member of the Geraniaceae family is known for its striking appearance and unique habitat range.

With its delicate, silvery-hued foliage, the Silvery cranesbill stands out in any garden or natural landscape. The leaves, which are finely divided and densely covered with silky, shimmering hairs, give the plant its characteristic silver appearance. These leaves form a low, mounding habit, typically reaching a height of about 15 centimeters, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or rock gardens.

The flowers of Geranium argenteum are equally enchanting, displaying a soft pink to pale purple hue that contrasts beautifully with its silvery foliage. Each flower, though small, is a masterpiece of nature, with five petals that create a classic, symmetrical bloom. These flowers typically emerge in late spring to early summer, adding a splash of color to the greenery.

Native to a region that stretches from southeastern France to Slovenia, the Silvery cranesbill is well adapted to various climates and soil conditions within this range. It thrives particularly well in alpine and subalpine meadows, often found nestled among rocks and in well-drained soil. This plant’s resilience to different environmental conditions makes it a versatile addition to many garden settings.

The Silvery cranesbill is not just a plant of aesthetic value; it also plays a role in the local ecology. It provides nectar and pollen for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which in turn helps sustain these vital populations.

In cultivation, Geranium argenteum prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering once established, making it a great choice for gardeners seeking a hardy yet beautiful plant.

In conclusion, Geranium argenteum, or the Silvery cranesbill, is a plant of both beauty and resilience. Its distinctive silvery foliage and delicate flowers make it a standout in any garden, while its adaptability ensures it can thrive in a variety of settings. Whether used in a residential garden or a naturalized landscape, this charming plant is sure to bring a touch of elegance and natural splendor.

Common Names

Swe: silvernäva
En: Silvery cranesbill
Fi: Hopeakurjenpolvi
Fr: Géranium à feuilles argentées, Géranium argenté
De: Silber-Storchschnabel
It: Geranio argentino
Sv: Silvernäva

Synonyms

• Geranium argenteum var. lucanum (A.Terracc.)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Italy (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Aug 8, 2020 by pascal viator (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 15, 2020 by Sarah No (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 8, 2002 by Past Bat (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 25, 2020 by Luc Janssens (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 30, 2020 by James & Tony (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2019 by parramon marta (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 27, 2019 by Denis CHARLES (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 31, 2021 by Mrc Pase (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 18, 2021 by martina list (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jun 25, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Michel MONTEIL (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2020 by Delphine Beyrend (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 15, 2011 by Photoflora – Bernard TILLY (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2011 by Photoflora – Bernard TILLY (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2001 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Fruit

Taken Jul 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2890636)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:372757-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Geranium argenteum L.)

Specifications

Growth