Common Name(s): True Geranium, Hardy Geranium, Perennial Geranium, Cranesbill Geranium
The flowers are small (1") and cupped shaped, attracting plenty of butterflies and bees. Thin stems hold the flowers above the foliage. And they're deer resistant, too.
See more on the variety of true geraniums in the photo gallery Growing Hardy Geraniums.
- G. endressii 'Wargrave Pink' - The most commonly grown geranium. Salmon pink flowers. 18-24" tall. Zones 3-8
- 'Rozanne' - A violet blue hybrid that's 2008 Perennial Plant of the Year. 18-24" tall. Zones 5-8.
- 'Ann Folkard' - One of the earliest blooming geraniums, with magenta flowers that repeat bloom throughout the season. Trailing habit. 6-8" tall. Zones 5-9.
- 'Double Jewel' - Double-white petals with a lilac center. It’s short and perfect for containers. 10" tall. Zones 4-8
- G. oxonianum 'Southcombe Double' - Double, pure pink blooms that resemble fluffy asters. 10" tall. Zones 4-8
They prefer full sun and a well-drained, moderately rich soil. They can handle partial shade, but become more prone to mildew if kept damp.
Geraniums are not particular about soil pH, but a neutral to slightly acid soil is ideal. (5.8 - 7.0)
Maintenance: The plants can get a bit scraggly after blooming and deadheading is difficult with so many wispy stems. Shearing the plants back to basal growth will improve its look and encourage reblooming. The plants fill back in within weeks. The exception is Geranium macrorrhizum, which is easily deadheaded and needs no shearing.
Most species of Geranium live longer if divided every 3-5 years. You can divide more frequently, so keep them from spreading. But once you see the center dying out, it is definitely time to divide.
Problems: Slugs may attack young plants. Mildew and rust can infest foliage, especially in partial shade and/or humid climates. Shearing back and disposing of the infected leaves will help.
