Bloody crane's-bill (Geranium sanguineum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bloody crane's-bill 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 Bloody crane's-bill
Geranium sanguineum, commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, is a low-growing perennial plant, perfect for ground cover, borders, and rock gardens. Its deeply lobed leaves form dense foliage that turns reddish in autumn, providing visual interest across multiple seasons. It produces vibrant magenta or deep pink flowers that beautifully contrast with its green foliage, creating an eye-catching focal point in sunny or partially shaded gardens.
Native range
Europe and Asia Minor
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, as waterlogging is its main enemy. This plant is drought-tolerant once established, so moderate watering is sufficient, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings. Sandy or well-drained soil is ideal; avoid heavy, clayey soils that retain too much moisture. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot and plant decline.
How to save a dying Bloody crane's-bill
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or reddish, wilting leaves, soft stems. Flower drop.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Prune damaged stems. Move from strong direct sun if very weak.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought in summer. Poor soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotten and some stems are healthy. Act fast.