Geranium ‘himalayense gravetye’
€8.50
Frequently Bought Together
Description
Geranium himalayense ‘Gravetye’ (Himalayan Cranesbill)
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Himalayan Cranesbill, Lilac Geranium
- Botanical Name: Geranium himalayense ‘Gravetye’
- Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
- Mature Height: 30-40cm
- Mature Spread: 60cm
- Flowering Period: June to August
- Flower Colour: Large violet-blue blooms with darker veining
- Foliage: Deeply divided, mid-green palmate leaves
- Hardiness: RHS H7 (Very hardy)
- Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil
- Aspect: Full sun to partial shade
- Maintenance: Low
Description
Like scattered sapphires nestled amongst emerald cushions, Geranium himalayense ‘Gravetye’ brings enchanting cottage garden charm perfectly suited to Irish gardens. This exceptional perennial creates waves of stunning violet-blue flowers that seem to shimmer with ethereal beauty, transforming ordinary borders into something truly magical whilst thriving in our cool, moist climate.
The magnificent blooms are notably larger than the species, each flower displaying exquisite violet-blue petals adorned with delicate darker veining that creates intricate patterns like nature’s own watercolour paintings. These spectacular flowers appear in generous profusion above mounds of deeply divided, palmate foliage that provides attractive ground cover throughout the growing season, creating a perfect carpet of green punctuated by jewel-like blooms.
Named after the famous Gravetye Manor garden in Sussex, this superior selection represents the pinnacle of hardy geranium breeding. This robust perennial has adapted beautifully to Irish conditions, relishing our cool summers and adequate rainfall whilst providing months of reliable colour. The spreading growth habit makes it perfect for front borders, rock gardens, or as ground cover beneath shrubs and trees.
Pair this stunning geranium with silver-leaved plants like Artemisia or Stachys for elegant contrast, or combine with other cottage garden favourites such as Alchemilla mollis and Nepeta for a harmonious blue and green tapestry. It’s particularly beautiful when allowed to weave through rose plantings or cascade over low walls, making it an ideal choice for family gardens seeking effortless, long-lasting beauty.
Caragh Garden Notebook
Plant in moist, well-drained soil, spacing 45cm apart for ground cover effect. Excellent for naturalising in woodland gardens or beneath deciduous trees where it appreciates dappled shade. Thrives in fertile soil enriched with organic matter but adapts to most garden conditions provided it doesn’t dry out completely.
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in sunnier positions, as this geranium appreciates consistent moisture. After the first flush of flowers, cut back by half to encourage fresh foliage and often a second wave of blooms in late summer. In autumn, leave the attractive seed heads for winter interest before cutting back in early spring.
Divide established clumps every 3-4 years in spring or autumn to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding. The fleshy rhizomes are easy to separate and transplant, making this an excellent plant for sharing with gardening friends. Self-seeds modestly in suitable conditions, providing natural replacements whilst rarely becoming invasive.
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