Geranium

Geranium x magnificum

The flowers of this herbaceous geranium are nearly twice the size of most of the others, with individual blooms measuring up to 5cm across. They are a rich, violet-blue and have distinctive dark-blue veins running through them. It forms loose, spreading clumps so is good at keeping weeds under control, but it can be a bit overpowering for more delicate plants. The hairy leaves usually turn shades of red and yellow before they die back in winter.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: vigorous
• Flowering period: June to July
• Flower colour: violet-blue
• Other features: deeply divided foliage, autumn colour
• Hardiness: fully hardy

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