About
A clump-forming perennial, to around 60cm high, with lobed, hairy green leaves that tint reddish-bronze in autumn. Masses of rich purple flowers with darker veins are produced in a single burst in midsummer.
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, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Bushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationThrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, but will tolerate most soils and positions unless waterlogged
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
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil larvae, geranium sawfly larvae, capsid bug, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews and virus diseases, and to powdery mildews in dry conditions