Max Frei Cranesbill
Max Frei Cranesbill
A Compact, Carefree Magenta Groundcover for Minnesota Sun
Max Frei Cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei') is a tidier, more compact selection of the bulletproof bloody cranesbill. It builds a dense, low cushion of finely dissected foliage that disappears under vivid magenta-pink flowers from early summer on, then turns brilliant red in fall. Tough as nails, deer-resistant, and hardy to zone 3, it's an effortless edger and groundcover for gardens in Edina, Eagan, and Plymouth.
Max Frei Cranesbill Plant Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' |
| Mature Size | 6–10 in. tall, 12–18 in. wide |
| Hardiness Zone | 3–8 (Twin Cities is zone 4b–5a — fully hardy) |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Bloom Time | Early to midsummer, with scattered rebloom |
| Flower Color | Magenta-pink |
| Soil | Adaptable — tolerates Minnesota clay-loam and average drainage |
| Winter Hardiness | Reliable to -30°F once established |
| Deer Resistance | Rarely browsed by deer or rabbits |
| Fall Color | Bright red foliage |
Landscape Uses
Compact edging and groundcover: Its dense, low habit makes a clean front-of-border edge or a weed-suppressing carpet on slopes and along walks. Space 14–16 inches apart for full coverage.
Pollinator and deer-resistant beds: Bees love the magenta flowers, and deer leave it alone — perfect for browse-heavy western suburbs. Pair with catmint, coreopsis, and dwarf ornamental grasses.
Best Time to Plant in Minnesota
Plant in spring (late April–May) or early fall (late August–mid September). It tolerates summer planting with regular water through establishment.
How to Plant Max Frei Cranesbill
Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot at the same depth, loosening clay soil and mixing in compost. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill, water well, and mulch 2 inches deep, keeping mulch off the crown. Space 14–16 inches apart for groundcover coverage.
Watering Max Frei Cranesbill
First year: Water every 2–3 days for the first weeks, then weekly. Stop 2–3 weeks before the ground freezes.
After year one: Drought-tolerant — supplemental water only during extended dry spells.
Q: Will it survive a Minnesota winter?
Yes — hardy to zone 3, it needs no winter protection here.
Q: How is it different from New Hampshire Purple?
Max Frei is more compact and lower-growing, making it the better choice for tight edges and small spaces.
Q: Is it deer-resistant?
Yes — hardy geraniums are reliably deer- and rabbit-resistant.
Q: Does it tolerate clay?
Yes, as long as the site isn't waterlogged.
You May Also Like
New Hampshire Purple Cranesbill: A taller, more spreading magenta cranesbill.
Catmint (Nepeta): A deer-resistant blue partner with the same easy care.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia): Hot summer color to contrast the cool magenta.