cranesbills

Cranesbills are herbaceous perennial plants in the genus Geranium, within the family Geraniaceae. They are commonly referred to as cranesbills because of the long, beak-like shape of their fruit. They are distinct from the tender geraniums (Pelargonium) commonly grown as annuals or in containers.

Most cranesbills have palmately divided or lobed leaves and produce flowers with five petals. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, blue, and white, and they bloom from spring into autumn depending on the species and climate. After flowering, the plants form distinctive seed pods with a crane-like beak.

Native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa, cranesbills are widely cultivated as garden plants. They are used in borders, rock gardens, containers, and as groundcovers. They display a range of growth forms, from low creeping types to upright cultivars reaching up to about 60 centimeters tall. Most are hardy and tolerate a variety of soils, provided drainage is good.

Cultivation and care: cranesbills prefer sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They water regularly during establishment but become drought-tolerant once established. Deadheading can extend flowering, and some gardeners trim back plants after peak bloom to maintain shape. Dividing clumps every two to three years helps maintain vigor.

Propagation and problems: they can be propagated by division or seed. In humid conditions they may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, or rust, and pests such as slugs and snails can occasionally be a problem. Overall, cranesbills are valued for their longevity, variety, and versatility in garden settings.