Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Geranium pratense 'Storm Cloud'
Storm Cloud Cranesbill
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Height
- 18 to 20 inches
- Width
- 18 inches
- Flower color
- Semi-double, deep blue to vibrant purple flowers
- Foliage color
- Deeply dissected, dark purple to dark green leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early autumn (June to October)
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming; disease-resistant
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Geranium pratense 'Storm Cloud' is a compact, clump-forming deciduous perennial with deeply divided, dark green foliage tinged with purple hues. In early to late summer, it produces semi-double, deep blue-purple flowers with a dark red frill, held on strong stems above the foliage.
This cultivar is noted for its strong growth, resistance to slugs and mildew, and ability to flower from the end of May with a second flush later in the season. It is also drought and temperature tolerant, making it a reliable and versatile addition to garden borders or large containers.
Works well in
Cottage Gardens · Borders · Pathways & Walkways · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Candytufts · Ninebark · Peonies · Blue fescues · Stonecrops · Ornamental onions
Design tip
Repeat this richly colored geranium through sunny borders to establish rhythm while echoing its deep foliage tones across the landscape. Pair with lighter foliage and upright flowering companions to create contrast, depth, and a balanced display from late spring into autumn.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the Oregon trial garden at Monrovia.
