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Herbaceous Perennial

Geranium sylvaticum
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

wood cranesbill

A medium-sized, deciduous perennial with divided and toothed leaves. Flowers are borne in May and June and are generally violet-blue with a white centre. It is a native of woodland and meadows

Other common names
bassinet
king's hood
see morewood geranium

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue White Green
Summer Blue White Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Geraniaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Geranium can be annuals, biennials and perennials, herbaceous or evergreen, with rounded, usually palmately lobed or divided leaves, and lax inflorescences of rounded, 5-petalled flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Best in moist soil but will grow in any, moderately fertile soil apart from waterlogged soils. For full sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or propagate by basal cuttings in early to mid spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to vine weevil, capsid bug and sawflies

Diseases

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to downy mildews and powdery mildews

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