Bigroot Cranesbill
Often regarded as one of the most reliable and hard-working groundcovers available, this aromatic perennial is a staple for gardeners who want high impact with very little effort. It is a vigorous variety of Cranesbill that forms a thick, weed-suppressing carpet of deeply lobed, fragrant foliage. In late Spring and early Summer, the plant is transformed by a profusion of intense, deep magenta-pink flowers that feature prominent red sepals, creating a vibrant display of colour. The scented leaves are semi-evergreen, providing excellent ground coverage for most of the year. As the weather turns cooler in Autumn, the foliage often takes on attractive red and bronze tints, adding a final splash of interest before the Winter. This plant is famously versatile, thriving in almost any situation from full sun to dry shade. It is particularly useful for underplanting trees and shrubs or for stabilising banks and slopes. Geranium macrorrhizum Bevan's Variety is also highly resistant to pests and diseases. Its spicy, resinous scent acts as a natural deterrent to deer and rabbits, making it an excellent choice for rural gardens. Once established, it is remarkably drought-tolerant and requires very little maintenance beyond a quick tidy-up after flowering.
Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Tolerates most soil types, including dry, poor soils, and clay.
Position: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade.
Season of Interest: Summer, Autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 12-14" (30-40cm) Spread: 2' (60cm)
Image by F. D. Richards cropped, and licensed by CC BY-SA 4.0
