This native perennial is highly prized for its loose clusters of five-petaled, rose-pink to lavender-purple flowers that are very attractive to pollinators. Each bloom is etched with delicate fine lines that act as "nectar guides" for visiting pollinators. Unlike its cultivated cousins, the Wild Geranium is perfectly suited for the dappled light of a forest edge or a shaded garden bed, but it will do just as well in the sun!
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water Needs Medium; prefers consistent moisture but is quite adaptable
Soil Type Rich, moist, well-drained Clay, Loam or Sand
Mature Height 1 to 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time April – July
Bloom Color Lavendar
Plant Spacing 10 to 12 inches
Black Walnut Tolerant
Self-Seeding Beauty: One of the most charming features is its seed pods, which resemble a crane’s bill. When ripe, they "spring" open to launch seeds several feet away, allowing the plant to naturalize beautifully without being aggressive.
Textured Foliage: The large, hand-shaped leaves provide an excellent mid-height filler that covers the ground effectively, helping to suppress weeds.
Versatility: While it loves the shade, it can handle more sun if the soil is kept sufficiently moist.
Nectar Source: A vital early-season food source for many native bees, including mining bees, mason bees, and bumblebees.
Butterfly Support: Frequently visited by several species of butterflies and skippers for its accessible nectar.
Host Plant: Serves as a host for the larvae of various moths including the White-Marked Tussock moth.
This native perennial is highly prized for its loose clusters of five-petaled, rose-pink to lavender-purple flowers that are very attractive to pollinators. Each bloom is etched with delicate fine lines that act as "nectar guides" for visiting pollinators. Unlike its cultivated cousins, the Wild Geranium is perfectly suited for the dappled light of a forest edge or a shaded garden bed, but it will do just as well in the sun!
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water Needs Medium; prefers consistent moisture but is quite adaptable
Soil Type Rich, moist, well-drained Clay, Loam or Sand
Mature Height 1 to 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time April – July
Bloom Color Lavendar
Plant Spacing 10 to 12 inches
Black Walnut Tolerant
Self-Seeding Beauty: One of the most charming features is its seed pods, which resemble a crane’s bill. When ripe, they "spring" open to launch seeds several feet away, allowing the plant to naturalize beautifully without being aggressive.
Textured Foliage: The large, hand-shaped leaves provide an excellent mid-height filler that covers the ground effectively, helping to suppress weeds.
Versatility: While it loves the shade, it can handle more sun if the soil is kept sufficiently moist.
Nectar Source: A vital early-season food source for many native bees, including mining bees, mason bees, and bumblebees.
Butterfly Support: Frequently visited by several species of butterflies and skippers for its accessible nectar.
Host Plant: Serves as a host for the larvae of various moths including the White-Marked Tussock moth.