herb with red stem and green leaves

The Hidden Powers of the Herb with Red Stems and Green Leaves

Have you ever noticed a delicate looking herb with bright red stems and lush green leaves popping up in your garden or landscape? If so, you’ve encountered herb Robert, also known as geranium robertianum. This low growing plant may look dainty, but don’t let that fool you – herb Robert packs some powerful benefits that can be a boon for any gardener.

Herb Robert is a member of the geranium family and is native to Europe and parts of Asia and North Africa. It was brought to North America by early settlers who valued it for its medicinal qualities. These days, herb Robert has naturalized throughout much of North America thanks to its prolific seed production and adaptability to a wide range of conditions.

While herb Robert is considered a weed in many areas due to its invasive tendencies, it’s not all bad This resilient little plant has a long history of uses that gardeners can take advantage of. Here’s an overview of herb Robert’s key benefits

Medicinal UsesHerb Robert has been used medicinally since ancient times Traditionally it was consumed as a tea, tincture or poultice to treat conditions like jaundice, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and digestive issues. Modern research has shown herb Robert contains high levels of geraniol, a compound with natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties Herb Robert extracts have even shown promise in laboratory studies for fighting cancer cells.

Of course, check with your doctor before ingesting herb Robert medicinally since high doses can cause side effects like diarrhea However, you can safely reap the antibacterial benefits by applying herb Robert poultices or washes to minor cuts and abrasions Just be sure to confirm you have correctly identified the plant first.

Attracts Pollinators
Herb Robert’s small but showy pinkish-purple flowers are a magnet for all kinds of pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and hoverflies flock to the blossoms to feast on their sweet nectar. Plant herb Robert near your vegetables and fruit trees, and these helpful insects will stick around to pollinate your crops as well. More pollination equals higher yields.

Natural Dye
The red stems and leaves of herb Robert contain a purple pigment called anthocyanin. This compound can act as a dye for fabrics and other materials, producing a range of red, pink and purple shades. To extract the dye, boil a large quantity of herb Robert plant parts in water for 30-60 minutes. Strain the liquid and add textiles or wool yarn. Simmer for 45-60 minutes until the desired color intensity is reached.

Adds Color and Texture
With its finely divided foliage and brilliant red stems, herb Robert makes an attractive – albeit somewhat weedy looking – ground cover. It grows well in shade and adds pops of color to darker parts of the garden. Herb Robert’s delicate texture also helps break up solid swathes of finer leaved plants like turf grass. Allow it grow between pavers or at the front of garden beds for an ornamental effect.

Helps Improve Soil Quality
The root nodules of herb Robert house bacteria that fix atmospheric nitrogen. This process takes inert nitrogen gas from the air and converts it into nitrogen compounds that plants can utilize. In essence, herb Robert fertilizes itself and surrounding plants. Its decomposing plant matter also improves soil health by increasing organic matter. The plant’s extensive root system helps aerate and drain heavy, compacted soils as well.

As you can see, herb Robert has a lot more to offer than just being a nuisance weed. Sure, it can spread aggressively. But it’s also a source of natural medicine, pollinator food, fabric dye and garden color too. Next time this unassuming little plant appears, consider taking advantage of its surprising benefits before yanking it out. With a little management, herb Robert can be a boon rather than a scourge in the garden.