Overview
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' is a matforming 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 'Blueberry Ice' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is attractive to pollinators and low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.
About
This sprawling perennial features glossy, three-lobed green foliage that transitions to shades of red as autumn approaches. From late spring to early autumn, it produces loose clusters of vibrant purple blooms, each approximately 2.5 cm across, adorned with pale lilac edges and pronounced magenta veining.
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 sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- 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, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice'
- Cultivation
- Grow in any, moderately fertile soil apart from waterlogged soils. Full sun or partial shade is best but shade is tolerated
- Pruning
- Remove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers
- Propagation
- Propagate by 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, capsid bug, geranium sawfly, slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Maybe susceptible to powdery mildews, downy mildews and a virus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice'?
Grow in any, moderately fertile soil apart from waterlogged soils. Full sun or partial shade is best but shade is tolerated.
Where is the best place to plant Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice'?
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' need?
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' 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.
How do I prune Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice'?
Remove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers.
How big does Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' grow?
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' 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 'Blueberry Ice' hardy in the UK?
Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice'?
Propagate by division in spring or propagate by basal cuttings in early to mid spring and root with bottom heat.
Is Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' good for pollinators?
Yes — Geranium nodosum 'Blueberry Ice' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.