The rhizome bears 10 to 30 sparsely branched roots from the sides and undersurface. Wild geranium is self-compatible but depends on pollinators for seed set. The seed coat is only slightly permeable, and the seed requires stratification before germination will take place. The seeds can have a dormancy period in excess of 400 days. This association may be a result of higher calcium in the soils under white oaks, due to runoff down the trunk of the tree.
Wild geranium is moderately shade tolerant.
Flower buds are formed in the year previous to flowering and are enclosed in the winter bud. Cauline leaves senesce around October, turning red and yellow, and are lost shortly therafter.