Small-Flowered Crane’s-Bill

(Geranium pusillum)

Small-Flowered Crane’s-Bill (Geranium pusillum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Geranium pusillum, commonly known as small-flowered crane’s-bill or small geranium, is an herbaceous annual plant native to Europe. It has naturalized in many parts of the world, including various regions of the USA and Canada, where it often occupies ecologically disturbed sites such as roadsides and waste areas. This plant typically grows to a height of 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) and spreads to a similar width. It features small, five-petaled blue to violet flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, with the flowering period extending if conditions are favorable. The foliage is deeply lobed, giving it a delicate appearance.

Small-flowered crane’s-bill is valued for its ability to fill in gaps in gardens and its use as a ground cover in urban settings due to its low maintenance requirements. It prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While it is not known for any significant diseases or pests, its potential for invasiveness should be considered before planting. It can self-seed prolifically, which may lead to unwanted spreading in gardens or natural areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to Europe and found in ecologically disturbed sites

Other Names

Common Names: Small-flowered Cranesbill

Scientific Names: , Geranium pusillum, ? majus, Geranium circinatum, Geranium circinatum, Geranium delicatulum, Geranium dissectum subsp. alba, Geranium dissectum subsp. alba, Geranium dissectum subsp. albidum, Geranium dissectum subsp. albiflorum

GBIF Accepted Name: