Weed of the Week: shiny geranium

Shiny geranium is a class B weed that is native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa. This weed is not known to be toxic. It is on the Washington State quarantine list. Shiny geranium has recently established in Washington and has quickly spread to many counties. It is difficult to control as the seeds can germinate when conditions are favorable in a variety of habitats.

This weed can be identified as a small, annual or biennial herbaceous plant with basal, lobed, shiny leaves and often reddish stems with small pink to magenta flowers.

Shiny geranium grows in well-shaded woodlands and forest openings as well as in full to partial sun. This plant reproduces by seed and has the capability to forcefully eject seeds when ripe.

This weed can be difficult to control as seeds may germinate several times per year whenever conditions are favorable, typically from early spring to fall. Monitoring and repeated control will be needed for multiple years, until the seeds are drained from the soil.

Remember to clean off shoes, tools and vehicles before leaving an infestation, as seeds are known to hitchhike to new locations.

If you have questions about Shiny Geranium or any other noxious weeds and their identification and control, we can help. Please contact Andy Lea at 360-795-3852.