Geranium macrorrhizum cranesbill, bigroot geranium

General  Information:  Low-maintenance, well-behaved, dry-shade, and beyond, good fall color, and fragrant, this ground cover does it all!

 Rhizomatous, semi-evergreen perennial forms a thick, weed-resistant ground cover. Deeply lobed and rounded, grayish-green leaves are 4-8″ long with 5-7 lobes. Leaves are strongly aromatic when crushed. Leaves turn to attractive red tones in autumn. Long-lasting purple-pink flowers (to 1″ wide) with dark red calyces. Extensive bloom period from late spring to early summer; sporadic rebloom occurs throughout summer. Blossoms appear above the foliage and can be somewhat inconspicuous as they tilt downward, though the bright masses of inflorescences are quite showy. Hardy, low-maintenance, with medicinal and insect-repelling qualities. 

Growing Requirements: This low-maintenance groundcover is ideal for dry to medium soil in full sun to part shade or full shade. It is one of the best options for a dry, shady spot where many other groundcovers will not perform well.  It is not fussy about conditions and does well in average soil, though it does not like very wet soil or situations where water does not drain, which can cause root rot. Geranium macrorrhizum is very drought-tolerant; supplemental water is only necessary in the beginning while the plant establishes.

In areas with hot summers, it appreciates some afternoon shade, though not essential. Thick rhizomes are drought-tolerant.