Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), also known as spotted or wood geranium, is a versatile and charming native perennial that brings early-season color and long-lasting beauty to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes. The flowers often have darker veining, which adds a touch of depth and visual interest. The foliage is attractive as well and often lasts long after the flowers have faded, sometimes providing interest into summer.

Geranium maculatum prefers partial shade to full sun and rich, well-drained soil, but is quite adaptable to various growing conditions. It is generally low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and deer-resistant, making it a good choice for formal or naturalized garden settings. It can spread gradually via rhizomes to form clumps that increase over time but are not typically considered invasive.

Ecologically, Wild Geranium is a valuable addition to native plant gardens. It is attractive to native pollinators such as bees and butterflies, providing nectar and pollen in early to mid-spring when few other plants are in bloom. It also works well in a layered garden design and can be paired with ferns, trilliums, Virginia bluebells, and other woodland ephemerals for a dynamic, colorful understory.

Wild Geranium is a valuable plant for native pollinators, with its flowers attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects to the garden. Its early to mid-spring flowering time provides a valuable source of nectar and pollen when few other plants are in bloom. The plant grows well in layered garden designs, with its low-growing habit and airy flowers pairing well with ferns, trilliums, Virginia bluebells, and other woodland ephemerals to create a vibrant and dynamic understory.