Geranium pratense 'Ilja' — Clump-forming, Mat-forming, Trailing, Carpet-forming

Overview

Geranium pratense 'Ilja' is a clump-forming, mat-forming, trailing, carpet-forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Geranium, part of the Geraniaceae family, with light green, bright green, silvery, dissected, patterned foliage. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Geranium pratense 'Ilja' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, woodland beds and containers. It is native to Belgium.

About

Geranium pratense, the meadow crane's-bill or meadow geranium, is a species of flowering plant in the family Geraniaceae, native to Europe and Asia. Forming a clump up to 1 m (3.3 ft) broad, it is a herbaceous perennial with hairy stems and lax saucer-shaped blooms of pale violet.

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.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Geranium

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Geranium pratense 'Ilja' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, Mat-forming, Trailing, Carpet-forming
Foliage: Light green, Bright green, Silvery, Dissected, Patterned
Height: 1.2 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Cottage gardens, Rock gardens, Woodland beds, Containers
Native to: Belgium

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Geranium pratense 'Ilja'

Propagation: Seed, Division, Cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids, Vine weevil, Caterpillars, Thrips
Disease resistance: Grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Geranium pratense 'Ilja'?

Geranium pratense 'Ilja' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Geranium pratense 'Ilja' need?

Geranium pratense 'Ilja' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.