Sticky Purple Geranium

(Geranium viscosissimum)

Sticky Purple Geranium (Geranium viscosissimum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Geranium viscosissimum, commonly known as Sticky Purple Geranium, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows in the Western USA and Western Canada. It forms large clumps reaching 0.5–3 feet (0.15–0.91 m) in height. The plant is characterized by its stem, leaves, and flower stalks, which are covered with sticky hairs. The bright-green leaves are dissected, many-toothed, and deeply lobed, adding a textured appearance to the foliage. From April to September, depending on elevation and latitude, it produces saucer-shaped, pink-to-purple flowers, each measuring 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) with reddish-purple lines on the petals. The flowers are quite showy, occurring in open clusters atop strong, branching, and leafy flower stalks that are 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 m) tall.

The Sticky Purple Geranium is valued for its extended blooming period and its ability to attract butterflies, making it a desirable addition to native plant and wildlife gardens. It is also used in informal borders and as a ground cover. This geranium species is relatively low-maintenance, requiring full sun and low amounts of water, thriving in soils with medium drainage. While it is adaptable to various conditions, it prefers a habitat similar to its native environment. It is not commonly associated with serious diseases or pests, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows

Other Names

Common Names: Sticky Geranium, Sticky Purple Cranesbill, Géranium Visqueux

Scientific Names: , Geranium viscosissimum, Geranium viscosissimum var. nervosum, Geranium nervosum, Geranium viscosissimum var. viscosissimum, Geranium viscosissimum subsp. nervosum, Geranium strigosius, Geranium strigosum, Geranium attenuilobum, Geranium strigosior

GBIF Accepted Name: Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A.Mey.