Geranium potentilloides

Geranium potentilloides grows upwards and sideways to a height between 15-60cm, and can take root from the leaf nodes to form extensive clumps. or greyish-green The underside of the leaves is often purplish. The stem of this species has short, bristly reflexed hairs that are pressed towards the stem, The seed of Geranium potentilloides is brown or black, and has a bristle that helps it to pierce the soil crust for germination. The fruit of the species is Fruit 12–14 mm long. == Habitat and Distribution ==

Geranium potentilloides is native to the south-east of Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. In Tasmania, Australia the species is found on eastern and central mountains up to 1000m. The species has also been introduced to coastal areas of central California, where it is known as Australian cranesbill and flowers from May to August. The species is commonly found in woodlands, grasslands and moist forested areas and prefers damp, shady sites. Geranium potentilloides requires well drained moist soil and can survive in dryish basalt and clay soils and dolerite in Tasmania. The species can tolerate seasonal drought conditions but is intolerant of prolonged inundation. == Uses ==

Geranium potentilloides has roots which are edible raw or cooked. The starchy roots are known to have been roasted for food by aboriginal Australian people, although it is likely that this was only the less bitter younger roots. Some Geranium species contain high levels of tannin and were used as an anti-diarrhoeal by aboriginal people. ==References==