Cranesbill

Geranium pratense Midnight Reiter

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Dark lilac, saucer-shaped flowers appear from May to September among deeply divided, deep purple leaves. A brand new introduction from North America, this geranium is very compact and the unusual foliage turns lovely autumnal colours. Like all hardy geraniums, it is ideal for the front of a sunny border though it can cope with a fairly shady spot and looks at home growing in a deciduous woodland garden.

• Garden care: In midsummer rejuvenate plants that are beginning to look jaded, by removing old flowered stems and leaves. Lift and divide large colonies in spring.