Erodium glandulosum, commonly known as Black-eyed Heron’s Bill, is a perennial herb native to the mountainous regions of the Pyrenees and Spain, where it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and open, sunny areas. It is a member of the Geraniaceae family and is known for its distinctive, deeply lobed leaves and small, five-petaled flowers that are typically mauve to lilac in color with contrasting dark purple centers, resembling a black eye. The flowering season extends from late spring to early summer, and the flowers are moderately showy, attracting pollinators such as bees.

Black-eyed Heron’s Bill is valued for its low-growing, mounding habit and attractive foliage, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and as a ground cover in sunny borders. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its reliability and performance in gardens. This plant prefers full sun and requires well-drained soil, tolerating dry conditions once established. It is relatively easy to maintain, but gardeners should be aware of potential issues with rust and root rot in poorly drained soils. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage a longer blooming period.CC BY-SA 4.0