Sticky Purple Geranium: A Native Wildflower for Western Gardens
If you’re looking to add a splash of purple to your native plant garden, the sticky purple geranium (Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum) might be just the ticket. This charming North American native brings both beauty and ecological value to gardens across the western United States and Canada.
What Makes This Geranium Special?
Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t your grandmother’s potted geranium! The sticky purple geranium is a true native wildflower that belongs to the wild geranium family. As its botanical name suggests (Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum), this plant has a somewhat sticky quality and sports lovely purple blooms that make it a standout in any native garden.
This hardy perennial (though it can sometimes behave as an annual) is classified as a forb, which simply means it’s a non-woody flowering plant. Think of it as nature’s way of creating a perfect garden companion that comes back year after year without all the fuss of woody shrubs.
Where Does It Call Home?
The sticky purple geranium has quite an impressive native range across western North America. You’ll find this adaptable plant growing naturally in:
- Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan
- U.S. states: California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming
This extensive distribution tells us something important: this is one tough, adaptable plant that can handle a variety of conditions across different climates and elevations.
Why Choose Sticky Purple Geranium for Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to consider this native beauty for your landscape:
- Native authenticity: As a true native across much of western North America, it supports local ecosystems and wildlife
- Low maintenance: Once established, native plants typically require less water and care than non-native alternatives
- Pollinator support: Like many native wildflowers, it likely provides nectar and pollen for local bees and other beneficial insects
- Versatile placement: Works well in wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and naturalized areas
Garden Design Ideas
The sticky purple geranium shines in several garden settings:
- Native plant gardens: Perfect for authentic regional plantings
- Wildflower meadows: Adds color and texture to naturalized areas
- Rock gardens: Its hardy nature makes it suitable for challenging growing conditions
- Xerophytic gardens: Great for water-wise landscaping once established
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing requirements for this variety can vary, most wild geraniums prefer:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soil (avoid waterlogged conditions)
- Water: Moderate water needs; drought tolerant once established
- Climate: Hardy across USDA zones approximately 3-8, based on its natural distribution
Planting and Care Tips
Getting your sticky purple geranium off to a good start is relatively straightforward:
- Timing: Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall
- Spacing: Allow adequate space for the plant to spread naturally
- Establishment: Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish
- Maintenance: Minimal care needed once established; may self-seed in favorable conditions
A Word of Caution
While we don’t have specific information about this variety’s growth habits or potential spreading nature, it’s always wise to research local growing conditions and observe how any new plant behaves in your specific garden before allowing it to naturalize extensively.
The Bottom Line
The sticky purple geranium offers gardeners a chance to grow a truly native wildflower that’s both beautiful and ecologically beneficial. While specific information about this particular variety is limited, its extensive native range suggests it’s a hardy, adaptable plant that could be a wonderful addition to the right garden setting.
If you’re passionate about native plants and want to support local ecosystems while adding natural beauty to your landscape, the sticky purple geranium deserves a spot on your consideration list. Just remember to source your plants responsibly from reputable native plant suppliers who can provide locally appropriate genetics for your region.
