The Beauty and Benefits of Wild Geranium: A Gardener’s Guide
Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) is a native perennial wildflower found in eastern North America. It's known for its delicate pink to lavender flowers and deeply lobed leaves. Here are some key details about this lovely plant:
Characteristics:
- Leaves: Deeply lobed (5-7 parts), palmate, with a slightly hairy texture. Turns reddish in fall.
- Flowers: Five-petaled, pink to lavender, blooming in spring (April–June).
- Height: Grows 1–2 feet tall.
- Fruit: Forms a distinctive beak-like seed pod that bursts open to disperse seeds.
Habitat & Range:
- Thrives in woodlands, meadows, and shaded edges.
- Prefers moist, well-drained soils but tolerates some drought.
- Native from eastern Canada to the U.S. Midwest and South.
Uses & Benefits:
- Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Medicinal: Traditionally used by Native Americans for diarrhea, mouth sores, and other ailments (consult an expert before use).
- Landscaping: Great for shade gardens, naturalized areas, and pollinator gardens.
Care Tips:
- Light: Partial shade to full shade (tolerates morning sun).
- Soil: Rich, moist, slightly acidic to neutral.
- Maintenance: Low-maintenance; deadhead to prevent self-seeding if desired.
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