Meadow cranesbill
Geranium sylvaticum · Geraniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant meadow cranesbill: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 16 to 32 inches tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -4°F)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate and mountainous regions
- Soil type
- Moist, well-draining, tolerant
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, particularly during dry periods. Reduce watering after flowering when the plant enters dormancy. In humid temperate climates, natural rainfall is often sufficient.
Light exposure
Place your wood geranium in a bright location: partial sun or light shade is ideal. This plant appreciates dappled shade and tolerates light shade well, especially in warm regions where it benefits from afternoon protection.
Soil and substrate
Prefer moist soil rich in organic matter and well-draining. This natural inhabitant of temperate forests tolerates somewhat compact soil and is satisfied with moderately fertile conditions. Adding compost at planting promotes establishment.
Pruning and cutting
Remove spent flowers to extend blooming and encourage balanced branching. In late autumn or early winter, cut the plant down to ground level; it will regrow vigorously in spring.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is not essential if the soil is properly amended at planting time. In poor soil, a balanced fertilizer in early growing season can support vigor and flowering.
Diseases and pests
Very robust, wood geranium rarely suffers from serious diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in cases of stagnant moisture or poor air circulation. Aphids may occasionally affect it; good cultural practices prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Wood geranium was long appreciated by European herbalists for its properties traditionally associated with astringency. Its scientific name 'sylvaticum' literally means 'of the forests,' recalling its natural habitat in cool, shaded understory of temperate mountains, where it blooms abundantly in violet-blue or pink depending on the population.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Meadow geraniumGeranium pratense
- Bloody Crane's-billGeranium sanguineum
- Rock crane's-billGeranium macrorrhizum
- French crane's-billGeranium endressii
- Purple-vein geraniumGeranium wallichianum
- Himalayan crane's-billGeranium himalayense
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.