Max Frei Hardy Geranium

Geranium sanguineum ‘Max Frei’ is a compact, low-growing bloodred geranium with bright purple-red flowers. Its restrained habit suits the front of a border and ground-cover plantings, while the spring flowers provide a short, clear color display. ## Placement and season Plant in full sun or partial shade in a spot with moderate moisture and good drainage. The Chicago Botanic Garden records reddish-purple flowers in May and June and describes the plant as a mounded ground cover. The Morton Arboretum describes ‘Max Frei’ as compact, with bright purple-red flowers and a height of 4 to 9 inches. [Chicago Botanic Garden plant finder](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/geranium-sanguineum-max-frei-bloody-cranesbill) · [Morton Arboretum cultivar notes](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/bloodred-geranium/) ## Growing conditions Choose full sun to partial shade and soil that retains some moisture without remaining wet. Bloodred geraniums tolerate partial shade, and the Morton Arboretum recommends moist, well-drained soil. Allow space for a low clump to broaden rather than placing it where taller neighbors will cover it. [Morton Arboretum care notes](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/bloodred-geranium/) · [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/geranium-sanguineum-max-frei-bloody-cranesbill) ## Maintenance Keep the planting area free of standing water and remove worn foliage when it detracts from the border. The Chicago Botanic Garden lists deer resistance and butterfly interest for this cultivar. Divide only when clumps need renewal or more space is required. [Chicago Botanic Garden plant finder](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/geranium-sanguineum-max-frei-bloody-cranesbill)