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Description
Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei, commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America. The plant grows up to 15-30 cm tall and spreads up to 30-60 cm wide. It has deeply lobed, toothed, and hairy leaves that are green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Bloody Cranesbill produces pink, magenta or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to mid-summer. The flowers are 2-3 cm wide and have five petals. The plant is a low-maintenance ground cover that is perfect for rock gardens and borders. It is also deer-resistant, making it an excellent option for gardens with deer problems.
Care Guide
Bloody Cranesbill is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions once it is established.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but will benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bloody Cranesbill is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Bloody Cranesbill is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei?
A: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions once it is established. Water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can I grow Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Bloody Cranesbill in a container as long as it has adequate drainage and is filled with well-draining soil.
Q: How can I propagate my Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei?
A: You can propagate the plant through division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and shoots.
Q: Is Geranium Sanguineum Max Frei toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Geranium macrorrhizum (Bigroot Geranium)
- Geranium cinereum (Ashy Cranesbill)
- Geranium pratense (Meadow Cranesbill)
- Geranium phaeum (Dusky Cranesbill)
References
- “Geranium sanguineum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g250.
- “Geranium sanguineum.” Plant Database, www.gardenia.net/plant/geranium-sanguineum-bloody-cranesbill.
- “Geranium sanguineum ‘Max Frei’.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1446/max-frei-bloody-cranesbill/.
