Family: Geraniaceae

Genus: Geranium

Species:Geranium robertianum L.
Common Name(s): herb-Robert, Robert geranium, stinky Bob, mountain geranium; (Spanish) hierba de San Roberto, herba da agulla

Geranium robertianum, commonly known as herb-Robert, or in North America as Robert geranium, is a common species of cranesbill native to Europe and parts of Asia, North Africa, and North America. It is a cold weather plant that grows as far north as the Arctic Circle. When the plant is bruised or crushed, its volatile oils emit a distinctive odor reminiscent of a skunk, earning it the common name “stinky Bob.”

Etymology

Because of its pungent odor, one of its oldest names was dragon’s blood. In rural England, another name was “death-come-quickly” because it was believed to bring immediate and dire misfortune to those who picked it.34

Traditional Medicine

Herb-Robert has been used in the folk medicine to treat diarrhea, improve liver and gallbladder function, soothe toothaches, stop nosebleeds, and to heal wounds. Additionally, freshly picked and crushed leaves, which emit a smell similar to burning tires, can be made into an ointment that serves as a mosquito repellent.35

Ecology

The flowers of this plant attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity. Additionally, the plant serves as a food source for certain insect larvae and provides habitat for small animals. In some regions of North American, its ability to grow and spread rapidly in a variety of habitats has led to concerns about its potential impact on native plant communities.36