Arizona Wild Flowers
Wildflower Pictures And Photos

Filaree, Erodium cicutarium

Filaree (Erodium cicutarium)	Early Source Of Nectar
Filaree (Erodium cicutarium) A Whole Field Of Filaree	A Large Field Makes A Large Early Source Of Nectar

Filaree Erodium cicutarium, Geranium Family ( Geraniaceae ) , Filaree. Also Called Redstem Storksbill. An annual, winter annual or biennial. It has a prostrate basal rosette and upright, often leafy flowering stalks. The stalks range from 1/2 inch to about 2 inches high, and originate in the axils of the leaves. The leaves are divided into fine leaflets (or lobes) and are finely dissected, similar to those of a carrot. The flowers are about 1/2 inches across, pink or lavender, and borne on stalks in clusters of 2-12. The sepals of the flowers are somewhat pointed and hairy. The fruiting structure (consisting of the seeds, persistent bristly styles, and central placental axis) is 2-5 cm long and resembles a stork's bill. At maturity, the developing fruit splits into 5 segments, each with a long, spirally twisting style with a seed attached at the base. The style twists hygroscopically, drilling the seed into the soil. Filaree grows worldwide below 70 degrees. It is found in all states except Florida and Louisiana. Height: About 1/2 inch to about 2 inches high. Flowers: Filaree flowers are about 3/8 inch across, pink or blue - lavender, and borne on stalks in clusters of 2-12. Blooming Time: February through May. Leaves: Leaves of young plants form a basal rosette. Leaves are finely divided (fern-like), basal, and grow to 4" long. Fruit: A sharp-pointed, narrow capsule. The point is driven into the ground as it ripens. Shape: Basal rosette Elevation: 0 - 4500 Feet. Habitat: On cultivated land, roadsides, yards. It also can be found in perennial fields. It prefers well-drained, clayey, loamy, or sandy soil. Miscellaneous: Flowering Photos Taken February 21, 2003 In Glendale, Arizona.