Long-stalked Crane's-bill (Geranium columbinum)

Long-stalked Crane's-bill

Geranium columbinum

Delicate pink blooms nod atop slender stems, a charming wild ground cover. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: Long-stalked Crane's-bill.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed rocky or grassy sites
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Watering Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands moderate summer heat without additional cooling needs
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Palmate, deeply lobed with toothed margins; bright green, finely hairy texture
  • Flower: Pale pink to lilac five-petaled blooms with subtle veined markings; nodding on thin, elongated stalks
  • Stem: Slender, branching, covered in fine hairs; upright, clumping growth habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly during extended dry spells; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Use only diluted, low-strength feed to avoid disrupting natural growth

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around base of plants in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering into early summer
  • Cut back faded foliage to ground level in late autumn to tidy clumps
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for naturalized gardens; traditional herbal uses for mild digestive support (limited historical documentation)