hardy geranium
cranesbill
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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.
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
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.
Text and photos ©2020 Great Plant Picks/Elisabeth Carey Miller Garden except where otherwise noted
Funded by the Pendleton and Elisabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation, The Seattle Times, and Individual Donors
Administered by the Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden