Overview
Geranium robertianum is a bushy annual biennial 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 1-2 years. Geranium robertianum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and wildflower meadow. It is native to Temp. N. Hemisphere.
About
Geranium robertianum is a wildflower that can be classified as either an annual or biennial, exhibiting a spreading habit that can reach heights of up to 40 cm. Its foliage features deeply divided, aromatic leaves that are a vibrant green, complemented by reddish stems as they mature. During the summer and autumn months, this plant produces clusters of pink flowers, each measuring up to 1 cm in diameter.
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, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Geranium robertianum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
- Native to
- Temp. N. Hemisphere
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Geranium robertianum
- Cultivation
- Thrives in sun or shade in any soil. It can be found in woodland, hedgerows and coastal locations and is useful for ground cover in shaded areas. Self-seeds happily, but any unwanted young plants are easy to remove. See herb robert for further information.
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Geranium robertianum?
Thrives in sun or shade in any soil. It can be found in woodland, hedgerows and coastal locations and is useful for ground cover in shaded areas. Self-seeds happily, but any unwanted young plants are easy to remove. See herb robert for further information.
Where is the best place to plant Geranium robertianum?
Geranium robertianum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Geranium robertianum need?
Geranium robertianum 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.
How do I prune Geranium robertianum?
No pruning required.
How big does Geranium robertianum grow?
Geranium robertianum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Geranium robertianum hardy in the UK?
Geranium robertianum has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Geranium robertianum?
Propagate by seed.
Is Geranium robertianum good for pollinators?
Yes — Geranium robertianum attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.