Overview
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Geranium, part of the Geraniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Geranium phaeum 'Raven' grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators and low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.
About
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' is a clump-forming perennial that reaches heights of up to 75 cm. It features lobed, green leaves that are deciduous and produces dark purple flowers measuring 2 to 2.5 cm in diameter. Blooming occurs from late spring into early summer.
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
- Aspect
- North-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Geranium phaeum 'Raven'
- Cultivation
- Grow in sun or shade in moist but well-drained soil; good in damp shade
- Pruning
- Cut back flowered stems and old leaves to encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring, or by basal softwood cuttings taken in spring and rooted with bottom heat
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to capsid bug, geranium sawfly, vine weevil, slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a rust, downy mildews, leafy gall, a virus and powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Geranium phaeum 'Raven'?
Grow in sun or shade in moist but well-drained soil; good in damp shade.
Where is the best place to plant Geranium phaeum 'Raven'?
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Geranium phaeum 'Raven' need?
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' 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 phaeum 'Raven'?
Cut back flowered stems and old leaves to encourage fresh growth.
How big does Geranium phaeum 'Raven' grow?
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Geranium phaeum 'Raven' hardy in the UK?
Geranium phaeum 'Raven' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Geranium phaeum 'Raven'?
Propagate by division in spring, or by basal softwood cuttings taken in spring and rooted with bottom heat.
Is Geranium phaeum 'Raven' good for pollinators?
Yes — Geranium phaeum 'Raven' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.