herb with red stem and green leaves

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

You may have seen herb Robert, which is also known as geranium robertianum, growing in your garden or on the ground. It has thin, bright red stems and lush, green leaves. This small plant might look pretty, but don’t be fooled—herb Robert has a lot of useful properties that can help any gardener.

The herb Robert comes from Europe, parts of Asia, and North Africa. It is a geranium. Early settlers brought it to North America because they thought it was good for them. Herb Robert has spread naturally across much of North America because it makes a lot of seeds and can grow in a lot of different 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, you should talk to your doctor before taking herb Robert as a medicine, since high doses can cause side effects like diarrhea. However, you can safely get the antibacterial benefits by putting herb Robert poultices or washes on small cuts and scrapes. Just make sure you have the right plant identified 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.

Herb Robert is more than just a bothersome weed, as you can see. Sure, it can spread aggressively. But it can also be used to make natural medicines, food for pollinators, fabric dye, and garden color. When this small, unassuming plant shows up again, think about using its surprising benefits instead of pulling it out. With a little care, herb Robert can be a garden friend instead of an enemy.