wild geranium

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

1-2 ft. tall
1-1.5 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Deer

Inolerant of

Direct Afternoon Sun

Propagation

By seed, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

No pretreatment is needed for seed to germinate.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide at least 1 ft spacing in rich, acid soil.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

 

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Fruit/seeds for birds

Leaves

Leaves are opposite, deeply lobed with serrate margins.

Flowers

Saucer shaped flowers with typically 5 pink petals with white center.

Fruit

Capsules.

Toxicity

No known toxicity

Ethnobotanical Use

The entire plant was boiled to make a tea to treat diarrhea as well as mouth and throat conditions.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

bottomland, mesic, and base-rich forests.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Rare in the coastal plain, but common in the piedmont and mountains.