Hardy Geranium Sticky Wild Geranium

Sticky wild geranium (*Geranium viscosissimum*) is a western native perennial with deeply lobed leaves and open clusters of pink-lavender to purple flowers. Glandular hairs cover the stems and foliage, giving the plant its characteristic tacky feel and making its leaves easy to recognize up close. ## Growth and season Plants generally reach about 16–35 inches tall. Flowering runs from May into August, and the foliage may turn red in fall. Its crane-bill-shaped seed capsules follow the flowers. [USDA NRCS](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_gevi2.pdf) describes its range, flowers, and sticky leaves. ## Placement Use it in a native perennial bed or naturalistic planting where its summer flowers can be seen. It grows in full sun or partial shade and is commonly found in well-drained soils; allow room for the plant to spread. The species supports native bees and butterflies. [South Dakota State University](https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/nativeplant/247/) provides regional habitat and garden notes. ## Maintenance Once established, it needs little supplemental irrigation. Remove seedpods before they ripen where volunteer seedlings are unwanted, and divide older plants if they become woody or crowded. [USDA NRCS](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_gevi2.pdf) recommends both steps.