Geranium sanguineum

Bloody cranesbill geranium is an herbaceous perennial in the Geraniaceae family and is native to Europe and temperate Asia.  The genus name comes from the Greek word "géranos" and means beak, referring to the beaked fruits. The species name sanguineum is Latin and refers to the red color of the leaves in fall.

This plant is a mounding perennial with prostrate to ascending branched and hairy stems that grows 10-20 inches tall and 20-24 inches wide. The flowers are magenta pink with darker venation that bloom in late spring to early summer and may rebloom throughout summer. The delicate basal foliage is lobed and turns red after a frost. It is one of the most popular perennial geraniums for gardens and is widely available.

Bloody cranesbill prefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun but tolerates part shade and some drought once established. It is also tolerant of clay soil, heat, deer and rabbits. Use as a groundcover, in a border, a rock garden or a pollinator garden. Bees and butterflies will visit the blooms. Divide the plant as needed in spring or fall to keep it in its desired space. It may also self-seed if conditions are right.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems but there is some susceptibility to leaf spots and rust. Also sawflies, vine weevil and capsid bugs.