Meadow Crane's-bill (Geranium pratense)

Meadow Crane's-bill

Geranium pratense

Its delicate blue blooms wave like tiny flags over meadows. Hardy perennial wildflower; common name: Meadow 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; thrives in cool, bright outdoor conditions; tolerates dappled shade in hot summer regions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; performs best in 10–22°C; avoid prolonged temperatures above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Palmate, deeply lobed with toothed edges, bright medium green
  • Flower: Five-petaled, pale to deep blue, clustered at upright stem tips
  • Stem: Erect, hairy, branching near the upper growth nodes
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Discontinue fertilization after mid-summer to support hardening off for winter

Banana peel compost tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to promote flowering
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage extended blooming through mid-summer
  • Cut back foliage to ground level after the first autumn frost to tidy growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes gentle beauty and wild meadow vitality in European garden traditions

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts native bees and pollinators; suitable for wildflower meadow restoration