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. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to S Europe.

About

Geranium nodosum is a spreading perennial characterized by its shiny, three-lobed foliage. From late spring through early autumn, it produces loose clusters of pale pink blooms, each measuring approximately 2.5 cm across, marked with dark veins.

About the genus

Geraniums encompass a variety of growth forms, including annuals, biennials, and perennials. These plants can be herbaceous or evergreen and feature rounded leaves that are typically palmately lobed or divided. Their flowers are characterized by a loose arrangement and consist of five petals.

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
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native to
S Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Geranium nodosum

Cultivation
Grow in any, moderately fertile soil apart from waterlogged soils. in full sun, partial shade or full shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if sedlings not managed
Pruning
Remove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers
Propagation
Propagate by seed, division in spring or propagate by basal cuttings in early to mid spring and root with bottom heat
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to vine weevil, geranium sawfly, slugs and snails
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews, downy mildews and a virus

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Geranium nodosum?

Grow in any, moderately fertile soil apart from waterlogged soils. in full sun, partial shade or full shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if sedlings not managed.

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.

How do I prune Geranium nodosum?

Remove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers.

How big does Geranium nodosum grow?

Geranium nodosum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Geranium nodosum hardy in the UK?

Geranium nodosum has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Geranium nodosum?

Propagate by seed, division in spring or propagate by basal cuttings in early to mid spring and root with bottom heat.

Is Geranium nodosum good for pollinators?

Yes — Geranium nodosum attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.