Wild Geranium

Geranium maculatum

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 4-9

In the dappled understories of Eastern woodlands, where the land folds into itself in quiet reverence, Geranium maculatum—known to generations as Wild Geranium or Crane’s Bill—has long made its home. This native perennial, with its softly-lobed leaves and rose-purple blooms, is as much a part of the old landscape as dogwood and dew.

From April to June, it sends up five-petaled blossoms, delicate and unassuming, each one a brief hymn to spring. The flowers hover like woodland lace above a tidy clump of foliage, drawing bees and early pollinators to their nectar-rich centers. By summer's end, the plant forms its namesake seed pod—resembling the slender bill of a crane—which curls and springs open in a gentle, old-fashioned flourish.

Geranium maculatum thrives in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and along streambanks, preferring moist, well-drained soil rich in leaf mold and memory. Yet it is adaptable, enduring dry spells and the encroachment of rooty companions like oak and beech. Its foliage may fade by late summer, but its spirit lingers in the earth—a perennial of modesty, usefulness, and grace.

This was a plant known to early settlers and herbalists alike, its roots once gathered for tinctures and teas. And still today, it asks for little, offering much: native beauty, wild heritage, and a thread of continuity in gardens old and new.

Key Features:

  • Native woodland perennial with historical and ecological value

  • Blooms in spring with delicate rose-purple flowers

  • Attracts bees and early pollinators

  • Tolerates part shade to full shade and a range of soil conditions

  • Excellent for naturalized plantings, shade gardens, or woodland edges

  • Grows well with ferns, sedges, and other spring ephemerals

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Schedule Delayed Shipping in your Cart

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Grown for Success
Propagated at Woodlanders

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Shipping
Expertly packed & shipped in 2-4 biz days

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 4 - 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Loam
  • Height at Maturity: 12 - 15 Inches
  • Spread at Maturity: 12 - 15 Inches
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower/Foliage

Foliage: The leaves are deeply lobed, with a medium green color that may turn reddish in the fall.

Flowers: Produces clusters of five-petaled, lavender-pink flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1-1.5 inches in diameter and are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Pale lavender, spring
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade. While Wild Geranium can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, it thrives best in dappled or partial shade, especially in warmer regions. Too much direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch and the plant to dry out quickly.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter. Geranium maculatum prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. Incorporating compost or leaf mold into the soil will improve its fertility and moisture retention. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, provided they are well-draining.

Watering: Requires moderate watering. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Once established, Geranium maculatum is relatively drought-tolerant but will perform best with regular watering during dry periods. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Wild Geranium is well-suited to temperate climates and can tolerate cold winters. It prefers moderate humidity levels but can adapt to a range of conditions. In regions with hot, dry summers, additional watering may be needed to keep the plant thriving.

Fertilization: Generally does not require much fertilization if planted in rich soil. However, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer flowers.

Pruning: Prune after the flowering period to remove spent flowers and tidy up the plant. Cutting back the plant by about one-third can encourage a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall. Pruning also helps prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and encourages bushier growth.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract aphids or slugs. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew or rust. If pests or diseases are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspection and proper garden hygiene can help keep the plant healthy.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.