Redstem filaree

Erodium cicutarium

Erodium cicutarium, commonly known as redstem filaree, common stork's-bill, or pinweed, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it has become widely distributed and naturalized in many parts of the world. Here's an informative description, including details on its appearance, identification, and management:

Appearance:

  1. Habit:

    • Redstem filaree is a low-growing, spreading plant with a prostrate to ascending growth habit.

  2. Leaves:

    • The leaves are deeply lobed and resemble the shape of a stork's bill, which is a distinctive feature.
    • Leaves are usually green, but they may take on reddish hues, especially on the stems.

  3. Flowers:

    • The flowers have five pink to purple petals and are borne in small clusters.
    • Each flower has a long, slender beak-like structure, resembling the beak of a stork.

  4. Stems:

    • The stems are often reddish in color, contributing to the common name "redstem filaree."

Identification:

  1. Deeply Lobed Leaves:

    • The deeply lobed leaves with a stork's bill shape are a key identifier.

  2. Beak-Like Structures:

    • The elongated, beak-like structures of the flowers are distinctive.

  3. Prostrate Growth Habit:

    • Its low-growing and spreading growth habit is characteristic.

Habitat and Distribution:

  1. Habitat:

    • Redstem filaree is commonly found in open, disturbed areas, including fields, roadsides, and waste places.

  2. Distribution:

    • Native to the Mediterranean region, it has become widespread and naturalized in many parts of North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Ecological and Agricultural Impact:

  1. Competitive Weed:

    • Redstem filaree is considered a competitive weed in agricultural settings, where it can outcompete desirable crops.

  2. Seed Production:

    • The plant produces a large number of seeds, contributing to its ability to colonize disturbed areas rapidly.

Management:

  1. Cultural Practices:

    • Proper crop rotation and tillage practices can help manage redstem filaree in agricultural fields.

  2. Herbicides:

    • Selective herbicides labeled for use against broadleaf weeds, including filaree, may be used for control.

  3. Mulching:

    • Mulching can be effective in garden settings to suppress weed growth.

  4. Manual Removal:

    • Hand pulling or hoeing can be employed for smaller infestations, especially in garden settings.

  5. Preventive Measures:

    • Implementing preventive measures, such as monitoring and controlling seed production, can help limit its spread.