Wild Geranium Geranium maculatum 'Spring Purple'
ABOUT
Geranium maculatum 'Spring Purple', commonly referred to as wild geranium or spotted geranium, displays a charming aesthetic that enriches any garden or natural setting. This variant of wild geranium is particularly noted for its distinct purple-hued flowers. The blossoms are formed in an open, rounded shape, each typically presenting five petals that create a star-like pattern. The coloration of 'Spring Purple' is an alluring feature, presenting shades of soft to deep purples that can vary with individual flowers, sometimes accented with pale pink or lilac tones. The foliage of this wild geranium is equally appealing, showcasing leaves that are deeply lobed and palmately cleft, resembling the shape of an open hand with the fingers spread. The leaves tend to be light to mid-green in color and may turn into striking shades of red or orange as the seasons transition into fall. Throughout the blooming period, which usually spans late spring to early summer, the foliage serves as a lush backdrop that accentuates the vibrancy of the flowers. These wild geraniums create an attractive ground cover when planted in groups, as their leaves and blossoms densely cover the space, offering a textured and colorful display. With the changing seasons, the plant not only provides visual interest through its colorful transformations but also through the structural beauty of its erect stems and symmetrical leaf arrangement. As a robust and adaptable perennial, Geranium maculatum 'Spring Purple' can thrive in a variety of growing conditions, making it a prevalent choice for gardeners seeking to add a touch of woodland charm and lasting visual interest to their landscapes. This wild geranium's ability to enchant with its understated yet rich hues and delicately veined petals makes it a standout specimen in both cultivated garden settings and more naturalized areas.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Wild Geranium, Spotted Geranium, Cranesbill, Wood Geranium.
Common names
Geranium maculatum
ToxicityTo humans
Geranium maculatum, commonly known as wild geranium, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant, such as leaves or roots. It is always advised to avoid eating wild plants or plant parts if you're not familiar with their edibility and potential effects on human health.
To pets
Wild geranium is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered to be a safe plant around animals, with no significant reports of poisoning in pets such as dogs and cats. Nonetheless, if a pet were to ingest a large quantity of the plant, it might experience mild stomach upset, much like a human would. If any concerning symptoms arise after your pet consumes any part of the plant, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: This variety of cranesbill geranium is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought resistance: Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with less frequent watering.
- Low maintenance: 'Spring Purple' tends not to require much care beyond basic watering and occasional fertilization, making it ideal for casual gardeners.
- Erosion control: The plant's root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly on slopes or in areas prone to runoff.
- Aesthetic appeal: The vibrant purple flowers add visual interest and a splash of color to gardens during its blooming season in springtime.
- Habitat enrichment: Provides shelter and food for beneficial insects, contributing positively to the local ecosystem.
- Native plant use: As a native species, it supports local habitats and wildlife better than many non-native ornamentals.
- Seasonal interest: Apart from spring bloom, the plant also offers interesting foliage and seed pods that add to the garden's appeal in other seasons.
Medical Properties- Astringent: The root and rhizome of Geranium maculatum, commonly known as Wild Geranium, have been used for their astringent properties, helping to tighten and constrict tissues.
- Hemostatic: Wild Geranium has traditionally been used to reduce bleeding both externally and internally due to its tannin content.
- Antidiarrheal: The plant's astringent action has also been employed in treating diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset.
- Mouthwash: The astringency lends to the use of Wild Geranium as a mouth rinse for gum and throat infections, as well as tonsillitis.
- Wound Healing: Topically, the powdered root can be applied to wounds and ulcers to promote healing and reduce infection.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wildlife Attractant: The 'Spring Purple' variety of Geranium can attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, providing a haven for biodiversity in your garden.
- Ink and Dye: Historically, some geranium species have been used to create a natural dye for fabric; 'Spring Purple's' colorful flowers may be a potential source for a gentle purple hue.
- Botanical Illustration Subject: The 'Spring Purple' can be a beautiful subject for botanical artists to study and paint, helping to document plant varieties and contribute to botanical art.
- Educational Tool: Educators can use 'Spring Purple' to teach students about native plant gardening, pollination, and the lifecycle of perennials in temperate climates.
- Culinary Decoration: The attractive blossoms of 'Spring Purple' can be used as an edible garnish for salads and desserts, though it's crucial to confirm all plant parts are safe for consumption.
- Companion Planting: 'Spring Purple' can be planted alongside vegetables to help attract pollinators and potentially improve crop yields through better pollination.
- Photography: The vibrant purple flowers provide a great opportunity for garden photographers to capture spring blooms and practice macro photography techniques.
- Leaf Casts: The unique shape and texture of geranium leaves can be used to make decorative leaf casts for garden art or homemade stepping stones.
- Scented Gardening: While not overwhelmingly fragrant, some geraniums contribute a subtle scent to the garden, and 'Spring Purple' may add a light floral note to a scented garden plan.
- Soil Erosion Control: When planted in clusters or as ground cover, geraniums, including 'Spring Purple,' can help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain garden areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wild Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wild Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Geranium maculatum, commonly known as Wild Geranium, has been used in traditional medicine, symbolizing healing and the restoration of health.
- Fertility and Reproduction: As Wild Geraniums spread easily and bloom prolifically, they are often associated with fertility and the natural cycle of reproduction.
- Friendship and Positive Emotions: Wild Geranium is sometimes gifted as a symbol of friendship, love, and the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures.
- Protection: The Geranium is believed to offer spiritual protection, keeping negative energies away and creating a sense of safety and security.
- Balance: With its symmetrical leaves and balanced growth, the Wild Geranium is often seen as representing equilibrium in life, harmonizing different aspects of an individual’s existence.
WaterThe Wild Geranium, or Geranium maculatum 'Spring Purple', should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. Ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, as this plant does not like to be in soggy conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, the amount of water may need to be increased to account for higher temperatures and evaporation rates; this could mean watering twice a week if conditions are particularly dry or hot. During the fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Rather than sticking to a strict schedule, it's best to check the top inch of soil beforehand; if it feels dry, it's time to water.
LightWild Geranium prefers to grow in partial shade to full sun conditions. The best spot for it would be a location that receives dappled sunlight throughout the day, or direct sunlight during the morning with some afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to fewer blooms and a leggy growth habit, or in excessively bright and hot spots where the leaves can scorch.
TemperatureWild Geranium thrives in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and can tolerate nighttime temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive in temperatures as low as the mid 30s, but frost can damage the plant. Its ideal growing conditions include typical spring and early summer temperatures, avoiding extreme heat which can be detrimental to the plant.
PruningPrune Wild Geranium after flowering to promote a second bloom and to maintain a compact shape. Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers, will encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Pruning can be done every few weeks during the blooming season to keep the plant tidy and may also involve cutting back any leggy or overgrown stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWild Geranium prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. A mix of peat, loam, and perlite or sand is ideal to maintain proper moisture balance while avoiding waterlogging.
RepottingWild Geranium should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting this perennial.
Humidity & MistingWild Geranium thrives at average room humidity levels. It is adaptable but prefers a relatively humid environment, without the need for special humidity measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and consistently moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, well-drained soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium maculatum 'Spring Purple', commonly known as Wild Geranium or Spotted Geranium, initiates its life cycle as a seed which, when conditions are favorable, germinates typically in spring. It grows into a seedling with characteristic geranium foliage and establishes a root system. As it matures into a young plant, it develops a clumping habit with serrated leaves, and by late spring to early summer, it enters the flowering stage, producing clusters of attractive purple flowers. After pollination, typically involving bees and other insects, the plant sets seed in the form of a unique beak-like capsule which, when ripe, can propel seeds some distance from the parent plant. Throughout the growing season, this perennial will continue to produce leaves, and after flowering, it will slowly enter dormancy as winter approaches. Each year, the plant will emerge from dormancy to repeat this cycle, growing larger and more robust with each passing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Wild Geranium, or Geranium maculatum 'Spring Purple', is commonly propagated by seed. The best time for sowing seeds is in fall, which allows them to undergo a natural stratification process during the winter. To propagate, seeds should be scattered over a prepared bed or a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. Then, they should be lightly covered with soil – just enough to block out the light as Geranium seeds require darkness to germinate. Water should be applied gently, and it's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination can occur in the spring as temperatures rise, and once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or their final location in the garden.
