Family:
Geraniaceae
Pelargonium australe
Native Storksbill
Other Names:
First Nations Name(s):
Regional Subspecies:
Occurrence:
Regional:
Predominantly east of Olympic Highway.
Habitat & Site Selection:
Generally rocky outcrops. Prefers dry well-drained soil and full sun. Tolerates drought, frost and moist well-drained soil in semi-shade.
Habit:
Slightly aromatic, rounded, soft, sprawling or erect perennial herb to 50 cm high. Hairy stems and fleshy taproot. Pink flowers Oct-Mar, and sporadically (often profuse and conspicuous). May die down to rootstock in harsh summers, and re-shoot in autumn.
Seed Collection:
Late Dec to late Mar. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed quickly.
Propagation:
Readily propagated from seed and cuttings.
VALUES:
First Nations:
Reputedly ate astringent red taproot.
Ornamental:
Useful soil binder for rockeries, groundcover, borders and containers. Prune severely to rejuvenate old plants.