Bicknell's Cranesbill
Geranium bicknellii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
4"–20" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, CT, FL and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Bicknell's cranesbill is a small annual wildflower with delicate pink to purple blooms and deeply divided leaves. This low-growing native produces flowers throughout the summer months and naturally reseeds for the following year.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bicknell's Cranesbill takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Small size makes it appear weedy in formal settings
- Annual growth habit creates gaps and inconsistent coverage
- Self-seeding nature may look uncontrolled
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beneficial flies during the summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bicknell's Cranesbill need?
- Bicknell's Cranesbill grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Bicknell's Cranesbill bloom?
- Bicknell's Cranesbill blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Bicknell's Cranesbill native?
- Bicknell's Cranesbill (Geranium bicknellii) is native to CA, CO, CT, FL and 25 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Bicknell's Cranesbill attract?
- Bicknell's Cranesbill draws bees and flies.
- Is Bicknell's Cranesbill HOA-friendly?
- Bicknell's Cranesbill takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bicknell's Cranesbill? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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