Wednesday 30 June 2010

365/131: 30 June 2010: Herb Robert

Geranium robertianum is another of those delightful hedgerow plants which are easy to overlook because they are small.  Apparently, in Washington State it is known as Stinking Bob, which seems a bit harsh – even if the smell of the crushed leaves is a bit acrid.

It is supposed to ease toothache and nosebleeds – although I’d be tempted to stick to a dentist and a good hanky respectively. It is also quite popular with the buff-tailed bumble-bee.

Leading candidates for the source of its name include a French monk, Robert  - Duke of Normandy, and St Rupert of Salzburg. Am I alone in thinking that if the latter was correct it would be called Herb Rupert?

Jun30

No comments: