Wood Cranesbill
geranium sylvaticum
Also known as: ["Wood Geranium","Mountain Cranesbill"]
Overview
A hardy perennial with attractive, deeply lobed leaves and clusters of bright blue or violet flowers, native to woodlands and meadows in Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Geraniales |
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Genus: | Geranium |
| Botanical Name: | Geranium sylvaticum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on shaping and deadheading.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove spent flower stalks at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems; remove dead foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Geranium sylvaticum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Geranium sylvaticum can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGeranium sylvaticum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Geranium sylvaticum grow?
A: It typically reaches 60–90 cm (24–35 inches) in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it is best suited for garden beds due to its spreading habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Geraniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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