Wild Geranium

This woodland species is an easily grown spring bloomer. Large, lobed leaves send up pink-purple flowers on delicate, dancing stems. Dark strips on the petals tell insects where to go to get nectar and pollen. Geranium maculatum is known as Spotted or Wild Geranium, and this native plant is an important spring food source for pollinators. Other purple geraniums sold in stores are often nonnative, sterile cultivars that produce no nectar or pollen. Foliage can look a little tired in summer and may die back completely some years and can be cut back if desired.

• Foliage may appear tired in summer after spring blooming is done. This may die back entirely or can be safely cut back at this point to tidy up - but don't forget that this plant will return next year!