Cut-leaf Crane's-bill
Geranium dissectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cut-leaf crane's-bill is a small annual wildflower with delicately divided, lacy foliage and tiny pink or purple flowers. This low-growing plant spreads naturally to form a soft groundcover in partially shaded areas throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cut-leaf Crane's-bill 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.
- Annual habit creates gaps and bare spots
- Small flowers and informal growth appear weedy
- Self-seeds unpredictably creating uneven coverage
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its long blooming period from May through August.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cut-leaf Crane's-bill need?
- Cut-leaf Crane's-bill grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Cut-leaf Crane's-bill bloom?
- Cut-leaf Crane's-bill blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Cut-leaf Crane's-bill native?
- Cut-leaf Crane's-bill (Geranium dissectum) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Cut-leaf Crane's-bill attract?
- Cut-leaf Crane's-bill draws bees and beetles.
- Is Cut-leaf Crane's-bill HOA-friendly?
- Cut-leaf Crane's-bill 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 Cut-leaf Crane's-bill? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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