Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Geranium x magnificum
Purple Cranesbill
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 inches
- Width
- 18 to 24 inches
- Flower color
- Violet-blue to purple flowers with darker purple or maroon veins
- Foliage color
- Dark green, deeply lobed leaves that often exhibit attractive autumn colors
- Bloom time
- Early to mid-summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; minimal care required
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 3 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Geranium x magnificum is a hardy perennial resulting from the hybridization of Geranium ibericum and Geranium platypetalum. Originating from regions spanning Iran, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, the Russian Federation, and Azerbaijan, this plant flourishes in full sun or partial shade, producing abundant violet-blue to purple flowers with dark purple or maroon veins from late spring to early summer.
The foliage consists of deeply lobed, hairy green leaves that often develop red and yellow hues in the fall, enhancing its ornamental appeal. Notably, Geranium x magnificum is a sterile hybrid, ensuring it remains contained within garden boundaries without self-seeding.
Works well in
Cottage Gardens · Borders · Pathways & Walkways · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Candytufts · Leucothoe · Peonies · Blue fescues · Stonecrops · Ornamental onions
Design tip
Plant in broad, repeating drifts where the saturated flower color can anchor mixed borders without overwhelming neighboring plants. Contrast rounded mounds with upright blooms and evergreen structure to create a layered composition that remains attractive from spring through autumn.
