Geranium sanguineum, commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, is a low growing, long blooming perennial that brings soft texture and vibrant color into the landscape. It’s a reliable choice for adding a natural, easygoing layer to planting designs.

The foliage is finely divided and forms a dense, mounded base with a soft, slightly airy texture. It has a fresh green color that can take on warm reddish tones in fall, adding seasonal interest beyond the flowers.

From late spring through summer, it produces an abundance of bright magenta to pink flowers that sit just above the foliage. The blooms are simple but vivid, creating a strong contrast against the greenery.

It has a spreading, ground-hugging habit, making it ideal for borders, mass plantings, or filling in between larger shrubs and perennials.

Geranium sanguineum grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well drained soil. Once established, it is fairly drought tolerant and adaptable to a range of conditions.

It typically reaches about 8 to 12 inches tall and spreads 1 to 2 feet wide, forming a dense, low mound. It is well suited for USDA zones 4 through 9. We also see it thriving here in zone 10 in So Cal.  The foliage is deciduous to semi evergreen depending on climate.

This plant has low toxicity and is generally safe for gardens with pets and children.

The flowers attract pollinators such as bees.

It is generally deer resistant.

Geranium sanguineum fits especially well into cottage, Mediterranean, and naturalistic garden designs, where its color and texture can be used to create a soft, layered effect.

It pairs well with plants like Salvia nemorosa, Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’, Cuphea, and Phormium for a vertical accent.

Expert Tip:

Place this where it can spread and fill in, because its low, mounding habit works best when allowed to naturalize slightly. Light trimming after the first bloom will also encourage a fresh flush of flowers.

— Nick from Rooted Theory