Geranium psilostemon

14 Aug

Geranium psilostemon (07/06/2014, Kew Gardens, London)

Position: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Moist, well drained soil

Flowering period: Summer

Eventual Height: 1.2m

Eventual Spread: 1.2m

Hardiness: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b

Family: Geraniaceae

Geranium psilostemon is a deciduous herbaceous perennial with a clump forming habit. Its foliage is mid green, broad and deeply lobed. Its leaves then turn fiery red during autumn before dying. Its flowers, borne singly in midsummer are cup-shaped and magenta in colour with black centres.

Geranium psilostemon Flower (07/06/2014, Kew Gardens, London)

Geranium psilostemon, commonly known as Armenian Cranesbill, is native to Eastern Europe and certain areas in Asia, including Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia and parts of Russia. Geranium psilostemon was introduced into cultivation in Britain in 1874. Geranium psilostemon is synonyms with Geranium armenum.

The etymological root of the binomial name Geranium is derived from the Greek geranos, meaning ‘crane’; referring to the beak-like fruit, with psilostemon being derived from the Latin, alluding to its smooth stamens.

The landscape architect may find Geranium psilostemon useful as an effective low maintenance ground cover, for areas in both full sun and partial shade. Consideration should be given to its deciduous nature. This plant is useful when attempting to attract wildlife to a scheme.

The Royal Horticultural Society gave Geranium psilostemon their prestigious Award of Garden Merit in 1993.

Geranium psilostemon will tolerate almost any soil conditions; it will be happy at neutral, alkaline or acid pH levels, in loam, sand, chalk or clay based soils, facing any sheltered or exposed aspect.

Ecologically, Geranium psilostemon will attract many species of pollinating insects such as honey bees and butterflies. The foliage is also attractive as food for terrestrial gastropods.

Geranium psilostemon Leaf (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)

Geranium psilostemon requires little to no maintenance. Flowered stems and old foliage may be removed to encourage new growth. Large clumps may be lifted and divided in spring.