Wood Cranesbill
Geranium sylvaticum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Geranium sylvaticum, the wood cranesbill, is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial native to woodlands and meadows in Europe and Asia. It features deeply lobed, dark green leaves and clusters of saucer-shaped, violet-blue to purple flowers in late spring and early summer. This species is known for its attractive purple flowers and ability to tolerate different soil types, making it versatile for woodland gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil with moderate moisture levels.
- Tuck seeds just below the soil surface in early spring or fall.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Transplant seedlings once they are sturdy and have developed roots.
- Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water consistently during dry spells to encourage healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for optimal foliage and flower development.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh midday sun in hot climates
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wood Cranesbill questions
What zones can Wood Cranesbill grow in?
Wood Cranesbill is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Wood Cranesbill deer resistant?
Yes — Wood Cranesbill is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wood Cranesbill bloom?
Wood Cranesbill typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wood Cranesbill need full sun?
Wood Cranesbill does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Geranium to compare
Bigroot Geranium
Geranium macrorrhizum
Wild Geranium
Geranium maculatum
Cranesbill 'Rozanne'
Geranium x magnificum 'Rozanne'
Showy Cranesbill
Geranium x magnificum 'Bevan's Variety'
Azure Rush Geranium
Geranium incanum 'Azure Rush'
Cranesbill 'Orion'
Geranium maculatum 'Orion'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Wood Cranesbill with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
