Geranium palustre (marsh cranesbill) — Clump forming

Overview

Geranium palustre is a clump forming 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 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Geranium palustre grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, groundcover, rock gardens and containers. It is native to Belgium, Flemish Region, Walloon Region and Flanders.

About

Geranium palustre, commonly known as marsh cranesbill, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Geraniaceae family. It grows to a height of 0.1 to 0.5 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, and tolerates acid, alkaline, and neutral pH levels. It prefers moist but well-drained or well-drained soils and can be grown in full sun or partial shade, suitable for all garden aspects and exposures. It provides interest during the winter season.

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, 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: H4

Plant details

Geranium palustre size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: 0.5-1 metres
Time to full height: 2-5 years
Suggested uses: Borders, Groundcover, Rock gardens, Containers
Native to: Belgium, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Geranium palustre

Propagation: Seed, Division, Cuttings
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Geranium palustre?

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

What soil does Geranium palustre need?

Geranium palustre 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.