Carolina geranium (Geranium carolinianum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Carolina geranium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Carolina geranium
Geranium carolinianum, commonly known as Carolina cranesbill or Carolina geranium, is an annual herbaceous plant native to North America. It is characterized by its small, pale pink to white flowers and deeply lobed leaves, which often turn reddish with age or sun exposure. It is ideal for rock gardens, path edges, or as ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas.
Native range
North America
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and tolerates a wide range of soil types, though it thrives best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Watering should be regular during dry periods, but it is drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot; ensure the soil dries out slightly between waterings.
How to save a dying Carolina geranium
- Warning signs
- Yellowish/reddish, wilted leaves, soft stems. Could be extreme dryness or waterlogging.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, remove and let it dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, quickly rotting its roots. Also prolonged lack of water.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't fully rotted or stems completely dry.