Small-flower Crane's-bill
Geranium pusillum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Small-flower crane's-bill is a low-growing annual wildflower with delicate pink or white flowers and deeply divided leaves. It forms compact mounds that bloom continuously from late spring through fall, making it useful as a ground cover or filler plant in shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small-flower 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.
- Very small flowers can appear weedy
- Annual habit creates gaps when plants die
- Low growth habit may look unkempt in formal settings
Wildlife value
This plant attracts small native bees and beetles with its modest but numerous flowers throughout the growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Small-flower Crane's-bill need?
- Small-flower Crane's-bill grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Small-flower Crane's-bill bloom?
- Small-flower Crane's-bill blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Small-flower Crane's-bill native?
- Small-flower Crane's-bill (Geranium pusillum) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Small-flower Crane's-bill attract?
- Small-flower Crane's-bill draws bees and beetles.
- Is Small-flower Crane's-bill HOA-friendly?
- Small-flower 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 Small-flower Crane's-bill? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz