Bloody Geranium is a European native perennial that brings vibrant magenta-pink flowers to gardens across hardiness zones 3-9, thriving where many plants struggle. This herbaceous clump-former grows 9-18 inches tall and spreads to 18 inches wide, making it one of the most widely grown geranium species in the U.S. today. The delicate, deeply cut foliage provides fine texture even after the showy blooms fade in late spring, and the plant's legendary toughness means it tolerates clay soil, deer, and rabbits without complaint.
18
Partial Sun
Moderate
3-9
18in H x 18in W
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Moderate
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Low-maintenance is an understatement with this one. The plant's frost-hardy constitution lets it overwinter in harsh climates, while its deer and rabbit resistance make it a genuine solution for wildlife pressure that stops most ornamentals cold. Small, intricately lobed leaves create an airy, refined look, and the five-petaled flowers appear singly in May and June in shades that seem almost too vivid for such a tough, undemanding plant.
Bloody Geranium works as a groundcover in mixed borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens where its trailing stems and low mound can sprawl over time. Its showy flowers and refined foliage make it equally valuable in containers or as edging along paths, where its deer resistance becomes an asset when browsing pressure is high.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last frost date. Germinate at 60-70°F in a moist seed-starting mix, keeping conditions consistently warm until seedlings emerge.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date once they have developed their first true leaves. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for their mature spread. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7-10 days before planting in their final location.
Remove side stems at any time to control the plant's spread and maintain a neater appearance. After flowering concludes in June, lightly shear back and shape the foliage to revitalize the plant and encourage denser growth in subsequent seasons.
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“Geranium sanguineum originates from Europe and Asia, where it evolved in diverse climates and soils that shaped its remarkable adaptability. It has become perhaps the most common species of geranium grown in the U.S., a testament to generations of gardeners recognizing its reliable performance and elegant simplicity. The common name "bloody cranesbill" refers both to the deep crimson of its flowers and the crane-like seed pods that follow bloom.”