Species

Geranium pratenseMeadow Cranesbill

6 other cultivars

perennial

Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill

Geranium pratense 'Victor Reiter Jr'

Same species

Species

Geranium pratenseMeadow Cranesbill

6 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Geranium pratense 'Victor Reiter Jr.' is a clump-forming perennial with deeply-lobed, dark purple-bronze foliage and saucer-shaped, violet-blue flowers in early to mid-summer. This cultivar is distinguished by its dark foliage which provides season-long interest, contrasting beautifully with its vibrant flowers.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms throughout summer, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Deer-resistant and attracts pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.

Supports bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer during active growth.
Prune dead or damaged stems mid-summer.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with partial shade for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with vibrant purple flowersWildflower meadow accentShaded garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Coreopsis Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill questions

What zones can Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill grow in?

Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow 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 Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill bloom?

Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill need full sun?

Victor Reiter Jr. Meadow Cranesbill does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.