Cranesbill Geranium

Selected as the 2008 Perennial Plant of the Year.  It forms a mid-sized mound of deeply-cut green leaves, bearing loose clusters of bright violet-purple cup-shaped flowers starting in early summer. Flowering can continue for weeks or months, particularly in regions with cool summers. Performs well towards the front of a border, also excellent for massing or in mixed containers. Prune back by half to rejuvenate, if flowering lags during hot weather: this is very seldom required with this free blooming selection, however. Often gives good bronzy fall color.

Feed: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.  If a severe shearing or cut back to the ground is necessary, fertilize as the foliage begins to regrow.  Over fertilizing can cause the plant to become sprawling and lanky.

Prune: Shear off the spent blooms and prune out fading foliage at ground level.  New foliage will quickly emerge, as well as a new batch of blooms. 

Notes

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Height: 12 inches

Spread: 18 inches

Blooming: Early Summer; Mid Summer; Late Summer; Early Fall

Soil Moisture: Low to average water

Sun Exposure: Part Shade, Full Sun