Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' — Clump-forming, Mound-forming, Spreading, Trailing

Overview

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' is a clump-forming, mound-forming, spreading, trailing perennial in the genus Geranium, part of the Geraniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover and border. It is native to South-eastern Alps and Balkans.

About

Geranium macrorrhizum is a species of hardy flowering herbaceous perennial plant in the genus Geranium, family Geraniaceae. It is native to the south-eastern Alps and the Balkans.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Geranium macrorrhizum

About the genus

Geranium is a genus of 422 species of annual, biennial, and perennial plants that are commonly known as geraniums, hardy geraniums, or cranesbills. They are found throughout the temperate regions of the world and the mountains of the tropics, with the greatest diversity in the eastern part of the Mediterranean region.

Wikipedia contributors, "Geranium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Geranium

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Geranium

Sunlight: Full sun, Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, Mound-forming, Spreading, Trailing
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 0.5 m
Suggested uses: Groundcover, Border
Native to: South-eastern Alps, Balkans
Fragrance: Aromatic leaves

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates shade and dry conditions; low maintenance
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth
Propagation: Division, Cuttings
Pest resistance: Vine weevil larvae, Geranium sawfly larvae, Capsid bug, Slugs, Snails
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews, Downy mildews, Rust diseases, Virus diseases

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart'?

Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates shade and dry conditions; low maintenance.

Where is the best place to plant Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart'?

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' prefers full sun and full shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' need?

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.