Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Ingwersen's Variety’

hardy geranium

cranesbill

  • © Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks

Outstanding Qualities

Few people would think of hardy geraniums as a groundcover. The very useful species, Geranium macrorrhizum 'Ingwersen's Variety' makes a tight and dense mat of fragrant, light green foliage. The evergreen foliage is topped with profuse clusters of soft pink flowers in late spring to early summer. The weed blocking foliage creates a slowly spreading patch that is great filler around other perennials. It does not have an aggressive root system and will not harm the more delicate shallow root systems of plants like rhododendrons and azaleas. Geranium macrorrhizum 'Ingwersen's Variety' works well growing in front of taller perennials such as Asters or Solidago. It is also quite useful as an edging for borders. It's medium-sized, round leaves contrast well with the fine foliage and textures of ornamental grasses or woody shrubs like, Nandina, hebes and barberry.

Quick Facts

Plant Type: perennial

Growth Habit: spreading

Foliage Type: evergreen

Plant Height (10-year): 1 ft. 0 in. (0.30 meters)

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

Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 to 8

Flower Color: pink

Flowering Time: spring-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.