Geranium

Geranium palmatum

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to August
• Hardiness: half hardy
  
  A beautiful species from the Canary Isles, this geranium produces masses of bright magenta flowers with deep crimson centres above large rosettes of ferny foliage with pink -flushed stems. It is a large growing geranium, that will retain most of its foliage throughout the winter. It prefers a sheltered spot, and although not fully hardy, it has allegedly survived temperatures as low as -11C for short periods in well drained soils.
  
  
• Garden care: In autumn, rejuvenate plants that are beginning to look jaded by removing old flowered stems and leaves. Protect from cold weather by moving it to a greenhouse or conservatory when the temperatures start to drop.