perennial

Bloody Cranesbill

Geranium sanguineum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Geranium sanguineum, commonly known as bloody cranesbill, is a clump-forming, hardy herbaceous perennial. It features deeply-lobed, dark green foliage that often turns brilliant red in fall, and produces saucer-shaped, magenta flowers over a long season. Extremely adaptable and long-lived, it thrives in a wide range of conditions, including full sun, various soils, and drought. It is also resistant to deer and rabbits, making it an excellent low-maintenance groundcover.

Uses & Benefits:

Geranium sanguineum provides vibrant ground cover with striking red flowers, enhancing garden visual appeal.

Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for low-water landscapes.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root development.
Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough to handle, typically after last frost.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods to promote healthy growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support blooming.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly but avoid waterlogging 🌱
Deadhead to promote more blooms
Apply fertilizer in early spring
Provide good air circulation

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Allow soil to become compacted
Neglect pruning after flowering
Use heavy mulch that retains excessive moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid perennial border with deep red flowersGroundcover in rock gardensColorful container plant for patios

Companion Plants

Salvia Lavender Coreopsis Nepeta Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bloody Cranesbill questions

What zones can Bloody Cranesbill grow in?

Bloody 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 Bloody Cranesbill deer resistant?

Yes — Bloody Cranesbill is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bloody Cranesbill bloom?

Bloody Cranesbill typically blooms in late spring to summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bloody Cranesbill need full sun?

Bloody Cranesbill does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Bloody Cranesbill drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bloody Cranesbill handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.