About
A clump-forming perennial to around 40cm high, with intricately divided leaves that are dark purple when young, and mature to dark green with purple margins. Small clusters of lavender-blue flowers are produced from early to late summer.
About the genus
Geranium can be annuals, biennials and perennials, herbaceous or evergreen, with rounded, usually palmately lobed or divided leaves, and lax inflorescences of rounded, 5-petalled flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in sun or light shade
PruningRemove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the production of fresh leaves and flowers
PropagationPropagate by division or by basal softwood cuttings in spring. Can also be grown from seed, though some seedlings may revert; any that emerge with green leaves should be discarded if dark foliage is required
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, geranium sawfly, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, downy mildews, rust diseases and virus diseases