Wood Cranesbill (Geranium sylvaticum)

Wood Cranesbill

Geranium sylvaticum

Its delicate purple blooms paint woodland edges with soft charm. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Wood Cranesbill.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial shade to dappled woodland light; tolerates full morning sun with consistent moisture
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions and avoids extreme summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Palmate, deeply lobed, hairy green leaves with serrated margins
  • Flower: Five-petaled, violet-purple blooms clustered at stem tops
  • Stem: Slender, hairy green stems branching from basal rosettes
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced organic feed every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare for dormancy

Composted banana peel tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering season
  • Cut back faded foliage to ground level in late autumn to tidy the plant
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

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

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and incidental contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes friendship and positive well-being in traditional European folklore

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts native bees and other pollinators