Stork's-bill
(Erodium cicutarium)

Overview

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The species Erodium cicutarium is commonly known as stork’s-bill and is a problematic weed of canola crops in Canada. This annual, winter annual broadleaf weed has the capacity to reduce crop yields if not controlled early. It is also known to cause difficulty when separating from canola seed during harvest time.

Main description

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Mature plant
The species E. cicutarium at maturity can reach 30 cm tall and is reddish in colour with short hairs covering the stems and leaves. The leaves are basal-like growing in a rosette. The flowers of Stork’s-bill are not numerous; however they are quite distinct, as they grow from very long stalks and are comprised of five pink petals, flowering from April to July.

Optimal growth conditions

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Stork’s-bill grows best in drier conditions, commonly at lower elevations and in well drained soils.