Bloody Crane's-bill
Geranium sanguineumUSDA | Grow Zone
3-8Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 12-18 in tall, 12-24 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Geranium sanguineum, commonly known as Bloody Crane's-bill, is a hardy perennial native to Europe. Its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for gardens, thriving in sunny spots and well-drained soil.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 12-18 in tall, 12-24 in wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Geranium sanguineum prefers moderate watering.
Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. In hotter months, you may need to water more frequently. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers. Ensure it is placed where it can receive morning sun and some afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Soil
Geranium sanguineum prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of loamy soil and sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant is not particularly fussy about humidity but prefers moderate levels around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the leaves or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
Geranium sanguineum thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, tolerating cold temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat. During summer, ensure it has adequate moisture to cope with higher temperatures.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce feeding in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Geranium sanguineum in early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to encourage bushier growth.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make cuts just above a leaf node. Deadheading spent flowers can promote further blooming.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, refresh the soil, and replant.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through seed sowing or division.
For seeds, sow in spring or fall, covering lightly with soil. For division, carefully dig up the plant in spring or fall, separating the root ball into sections, and replant immediately. Ensure each section has roots and foliage.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Typically caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Adjust watering schedule and check soil nutrients, applying fertilizer if necessary.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil due to poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. If severe, repot the plant in fresh soil.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and provide shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Pest infestations (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Common in dry conditions or overcrowded plants.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are found.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient light or lack of deadheading.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and regularly deadhead spent blooms.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead stems and prepare for new growth. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering, especially in hot weather. Deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Consider mulching to protect roots from frost.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold. If grown in pots, consider moving them to a sheltered location.
Toxicity & Safety
Geranium sanguineum is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild stomach upset. Always monitor pets around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Bloody Crane's-bill?
Water your Geranium sanguineum when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, adjusting frequency based on weather conditions.
What type of soil is best for Geranium sanguineum?
A well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. A combination of loamy soil and sand or perlite works well to prevent water retention.
Why are my Bloody Crane's-bill leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check your watering habits and consider fertilizing if needed.
Can I grow Geranium sanguineum in shade?
While this plant prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade. However, it may produce fewer flowers in shadier conditions.
When is the best time to prune Geranium sanguineum?
Prune in early spring to remove dead stems and promote bushier growth. Regular deadheading during the blooming season can also encourage more flowers.
How do I propagate Bloody Crane's-bill?
You can propagate Geranium sanguineum through seeds or division. Sow seeds in spring or fall, or divide the plant in spring or fall for new growth.
What pests should I watch for on my Geranium sanguineum?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
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