Geranium × cantabrigiense ‘Karmina’

hardy geranium

cranesbill

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Outstanding Qualities

Geranium x cantabrigiense 'Karmina' makes a great evergreen groundcover by creating a dense mat that helps reduce weed growth in the garden. Deep red-violet flowers make a show in late spring to early summer and are attractive to butterflies. It is a very hardy plant and its low spreading habit makes it the perfect filler for perennial or shrub plantings. Geranium x cantabrigiense 'Karmina' works well growing in front of taller perennials like Astrantia, Asters, and Solidago. It looks good texturally alongside ornamental grasses such as Helictotrichon sempervirens, the blue oat grass and the tall and striking, Stipa gigantea.

Quick Facts

Plant Type: perennial

Growth Habit: spreading

Foliage Type: evergreen

Plant Height (10-year): 0 ft. 8 in. (0.21 meters)

Plant Width/Spread (10-year): 5 ft. 0 in. (1.52 meters)

Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 to 8

Flower Color: violet

Flowering Time: summer

Sun/Light Exposure: full sun to light or open shade

Water Requirements: occasional watering during prolonged dry periods

Wildlife Associations: bees, butterflies

Culture Notes

This groundcover hardy geranium grows best in rich moist to well-drained soil, but is tough and will tolerate sand and clay. Plant it in full sun to light or open shade. This plant requires very little maintenance. A light shearing in mid winter can tidy the foliage, but is not necessary. It has relatively shallow roots and can easily be divided and spread to other areas in the garden. Divisions are best done while dormant, from late fall to early spring. Once established this hardy geranium only needs occasional water during prolonged dry periods.