Geranium macrorrhizum

Bigroot geranium

CODE: 00B-0011
ZONE: 3a
PRICE: $9.00
POT SIZE: 4.5"sq x 5.0", 1004 ml

Most of the bigroot geraniums that we see in commerce nowadays are the cultivar 'Bevan's Variety'. While a nice plant, there are times when more subtle colors are wanted. For those situations I'm pleased to introduce the straight species.

I'm not sure where bigroot geranium got it's name, but I suspect it's because of the thick rhizomatous stems that root as it spreads through the garden. From those stems large, lobed, slightly fuzzy green leaves rise up, framing dusty mauve blooms held high in May.

I failed to mention something, though. The leaves are fragrant! That's right -- brush against them and they release a complicated (but pleasant) scent that reminds me of lemons, vinegar, and honey.

It does tolerates quite a range of lighting and moisture conditions and is surprisingly drought tolerant. Plant it in your border or at the base of larger shrubs that it can meander around. Mine are planted at the base of a large Leucothoe.

Back to index