Geranium nodosum (Knotted cranesbill) — Bushy

Overview

Geranium nodosum is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Geranium, part of the Geraniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Geranium nodosum grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds. It is native to Corse, France, Italy, NW. Balkan Pen. and Spain.

About

Geranium nodosum, commonly known as knotted cranesbill, is a bushy herbaceous perennial belonging to the Geranium genus within the Geraniaceae family. This deciduous plant typically grows to a height and spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. It thrives in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, and tolerates acid, alkaline, and neutral pH levels. Geranium nodosum is adaptable to full sun, partial shade, or full shade, and can be grown in both exposed and sheltered locations. It is notable for its interest during spring, autumn, and winter seasons.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Geranium nodosum

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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Geranium nodosum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: 0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height: 2-5 years
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds
Native to: Corse, France, Italy, NW. Balkan Pen., Spain

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Geranium nodosum

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to full shade. Suitable for rock gardens and woodland settings.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: Division in spring, Basal cuttings in early to mid spring
Pest resistance: Vine weevil, Capsid bug, Sawflies
Disease resistance: Downy mildews, Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Geranium nodosum?

Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to full shade. Suitable for rock gardens and woodland settings.

Where is the best place to plant Geranium nodosum?

Geranium nodosum prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Geranium nodosum need?

Geranium nodosum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.