Cranesbill Geranium (Geranium sp.)

Name: Cranesbill Geranium (Geranium sp.)
Brand: BC Native Plants
Price: 0.01 CAD
Availability: InStock

Sunlight:

Partial Sun
Full Sun

Soil Type:

Well-Drained

A native herbacious perennial. Attractive blue flowers from mid-summer onward. Frost tolerant. Excellent for borders and along hedge rows. Attracts all types of pollinators.

Native Cranesbill Geranium:
There are native cranesbill (geranium) species in British Columbia, such as the Northern cranesbill (Geranium bicknellii) and the Woolly cranesbill (Geranium erianthum), which are found in forest habitats across northern North America. In addition to the native species, many non-native cranesbills, like the Bigroot cranesbill (Geranium macrorrhizum) and Dovefoot geranium (Geranium molle), are naturalized and widely planted in the province.

Invasive Species:
While native species like Geranium maculatum exist in the BC interior, it is important to distinguish them from invasive species. Shiny Geranium (Geranium lucidum) is a significant, fast-spreading invasive in southwestern BC and the Capital Region.

Thrive in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, though they are highly adaptable to various types, including sandy and clay soils. Adaptable to loam, sandy, or clay soils, provided they are not excessively compacted or constantly wet. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–6.5) but are generally not picky. The most critical factor is ensuring good drainage to prevent rot.

Typically range from 6 to 24 inches in height (0.5-2ft) and spread 1 to 3 feet wide.

Garden Design:

For specific conditions:
Rock Gardens: Choose species that prefer gritty, sandy, and sharply drained soil.

Woodland Gardens: Prefer humus-rich, moist, but well-drained soil.

Containers: Use a high-quality all-purpose potting mix, ensuring the container has drainage holes.

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (well-rotted compost or bark) to maintain moisture and soil health.

Hardy geraniums, once established, can tolerate drought-prone conditions, such as the rain shadow of walls or trees.

Bloom Times:

April
May
June
July

Pollinator Support:

Bees
Hummingbirds
Butterflies

Grows Well With

Garden Design Consultations

We offer design guidance via Zoom or Whatsapp, phone or text. Book a consultation today to learn which plants are right for your environment's conditions.

Contact →