In his New England Rareties (1762), John Josselyn called the Wild Geranium "Raven's-Claw," and in 1814 Frederick Pursh noted the name "Alum-root, on account of the astringent test of the roots." Its name derives from geranos, the Greek word for crane, alluding to the long beak of the seed. While in France in 1786, Thomas Jefferson requested plants of this species from the nursery of Quaker botanist John Bartram, Jr., to share with his many Paris friends.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Wild Geranium.

Typical Blooming Dates: April-May
Growth Type: Perennial
Blossom Color(s): Pink, Purple
Hardiness Zones: 2-8
Location at Monticello: West Lawn
Planting Conditions: Part Sun