Geranium maculatum is a perennial and native throughout the eastern half of the U.S. In the wild it is mostly found in wooded areas.
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Growth Habits & Characteristics
•Type: Herbaceous perennial
•Height: Typically ~1 foot  tall
•Spread: Forms clumps via an extensive, fibrous root system and may slowly spread by underground rhizomes, makes an attractive ground cover
•Light Requirements: Prefers partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland settings
•Soil Preferences: Thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils common in deciduous forests
•Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring, with a brief but vibrant display of flowers
About a month after blooming, the seed capsules appear. The seed capsules have a central piece attached to a base and resemble a cranes head, which is where the geranium gets the common name of cranesbill or cranesbill geranium. The seed pods explode when ripe and catapult the seeds 10-30 feet away.
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•Pollinators: Wild geranium is highly attractive to native bees and other pollinating insects that rely on its nectar early in the growing season.
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Companion Plants
Wild geranium works well when paired with other woodland and native garden species, creating a layered, naturalistic planting. Consider including:
•Ferns, such as Christmas fern
•Wild Columbine 
•Wild Ginger 
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Ecological Importance
•Pollinator Support:
Wild geranium is an early-season nectar source for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping jump-start the growing season and support local pollinator populations.
•Soil Health:
Its clumping growth habit aids in soil stabilization and the maintenance of healthy forest understories, contributing to overall ecosystem resilience.