Wild Geranium Geranium maculatum f. albiflorum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Wild Geranium showcases striking features distinct to its form. It possesses stems that are upright and often branched, supporting its growth habit. The leaves are attractively lobed with deep cuts, almost resembling a hand with outstretched fingers, and are held aloft on lengthy petioles. A unique aspect of this particular form is its pure white flowers. Each bloom consists of five rounded petals that form a delicate cup-like shape, radiating a soft, pristine beauty earmarked for this variety. The flowers are arranged in loose clusters, giving the plant a bountiful and lush appearance during its blooming season. Adding to the display are the prominent stamens that reach out from the center of each flower, providing a subtle contrast to the pure white petals. The plant’s seeds are encased in beak-like structures which, upon maturity, split open to release the seeds to their surroundings. Overall, the plant exudes a wild and natural charm, with its white flowers setting it apart from its more commonly seen relatives with pink or purple blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
White-Flowered Wild Geranium, White Flowered Cranesbill, Wild Geranium.
Common names
Geranium maculatum f. albiflorum
ToxicityTo humans
Wild Geranium, commonly known as Wild Geranium, is not known to be poisonous to humans. Ingestion of any part of this particular species typically does not lead to significant toxic effects.
To pets
Wild Geranium is not considered toxic to pets either. It is generally regarded as safe, and there should not be any severe symptoms of poisoning if pets ingest parts of this plant. However, individual animals might have different sensitivities, so it is always a good practice to monitor for any unusual reactions and consult with a veterinarian if any health concerns arise after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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 – Geranium maculatum, commonly known as Wild Geranium, can attract bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many ecosystems.
- Erosion control – The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and control erosion in certain areas.
- Landscape aesthetics – Wild Geranium can enhance garden aesthetics due to its attractive foliage and white flowers.
- Wildlife habitat – It provides shelter and nesting sites for small wildlife and insects.
- Drought tolerance – Once established, the plant can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low maintenance – Wild Geranium generally requires minimal care once established in an appropriate environment.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Geranium maculatum is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Astringent: The plant is known for its astringent effects, which can help tighten and tone tissues.
- Hemostatic: It may be used to assist in stopping bleeding both externally and internally.
- Diuretic: Historically, the plant has been used to promote the flow of urine.
- Sore throats: It has been used in gargles to soothe sore throats.
- Gastrointestinal issues: The plant is reported to have been used for various gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea and dysentery.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wildlife Habitat: The Geranium maculatum f. albiflorum, commonly known as Wild Geranium, can provide shelter and suitable breeding grounds for numerous insects and small animals in the wild.
- Dye Production: Historically, some geranium species have been used to produce natural dyes; the roots of Wild Geranium may yield a tan or brown dye.
- Garden Aesthetics: Wild Geraniums with their white flowers can be used as ground covers, enhancing garden designs with their foliage even when not in bloom.
- Erosion Control: They effectively prevent soil erosion when planted on slopes or in areas prone to excess water runoff.
- Companion Planting: Wild Geranium may be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
- Crafts and Decoration: The attractive flowers and leaves of Wild Geranium can be used in floral arrangements or pressed flower crafts.
- Photography: Provides a picturesque subject for nature photographers, particularly when the plant is in full bloom.
- Education and Research: Useful in botanical studies to educate about native plant species and pollination ecology due to its role in local ecosystems.
- Culinary Decoration: Although not typically eaten, the flowers could be used to ornately decorate desserts and dishes in high-end culinary arts.
- Traditional Tannin Source: The tannins present in the roots may have been used historically for tanning leather, although this is more common with other tannin-rich plants.
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, is often associated with health and healing, reflecting its historical use in herbal medicine.
- Protection: The geranium is sometimes considered a protective plant, warding off negative energies when planted in the garden or placed in the home.
- Fertility: Some traditions link the geranium with fertility and reproduction, perhaps due to its prolific seed production.
- Friendship: Offering a geranium as a gift might signify a deep friendship or a wish for a friend's good health and happiness.
- Positive Emotions: The bright and colorful flowers of the wild geranium are seen as a symbol of happiness and positive emotions.
WaterWild Geranium should be watered regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In general, providing about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering, should be sufficient. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, ensuring that the water reaches the roots without splashing the leaves too much to avoid fungal diseases. It's best to water in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the foliage to dry out during the day. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering; if it's dry to the touch, it's time to water your Wild Geranium.
LightWild Geranium thrives best in partial to full shade conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is one that offers morning sunlight and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoiding intense afternoon sun will protect the foliage from scorch marks and excessive drying out, ensuring a healthy growth.
TemperatureWild Geranium is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it performs best when the temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -20°F and is tolerant of the temperature fluctuations typical of its native woodland habitats. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85°F may stress the plant, so it's important to provide shade during the hottest parts of the day.
PruningPruning Wild Geranium is primarily done to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom, improve air circulation, and maintain a desired shape. It's best to prune immediately after the first flowering period in late spring or early summer. Deadheading, or removing old flowers, can be done regularly throughout the blooming season to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWild Geranium prefers organic-rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil, peat, and perlite or sand can provide the necessary drainage and nutrient content for healthy growth.
RepottingWild Geranium should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, to refresh the soil and encourage new growth.
Humidity & MistingWild Geranium thrives in average home humidity levels but can benefit from slightly higher humidity; however, it is fairly tolerant of a range of humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Partial shade to full sun, well-drained soil, and even moisture.
Life cycleGeranium maculatum f. albiflorum, commonly known as White Wild Geranium or Wild Cranesbill, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after dispersal typically germinates in spring under suitable conditions of moisture and temperature. The seedling emerges and develops into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, gradually maturing into a clump-forming perennial with distinctive lobed foliage. In the second or third year, the plant reaches maturity and produces flowering stems, each bearing a number of white flowers typically between April and June. After pollination by insects, the flowers develop into beaked seed capsules that propel seeds away from the parent plant, ensuring the spread of the next generation. During summer, after the plant has flowered and set seed, the foliage often goes dormant, especially if conditions are dry, retreating to the rootstock or producing smaller leaves. The plant overwinters as a rootstock or with winter green leaves, ready to regrow and restart the cycle in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Geranium maculatum f. albiflorum, commonly known as the White Wild Geranium, can be propagated most effectively through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in fall or early spring directly into the garden. To ensure successful germination, seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep (approximately 6 millimeters) in soil that mimics their natural woodland habitat - moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter. The seeds typically germinate in the spring as temperatures rise. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their desired location in the garden. It's essential to provide the young plants with light shade and sufficient water as they establish.
