Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Geranium phaeum var. phaeum ‘Samobor’
Dusky Cranesbill
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Height
- 18-24 inches
- Width
- 18-24 inches
- Flower color
- Deep maroon to almost black
- Foliage color
- Medium green with distinctive maroon blotches
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate, prefers well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low
- Wildlife
- Bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Samobor', commonly known as Dusky Cranesbill, is an elegant perennial prized for its dark, velvety flowers and unique foliage. Native to Europe, this hardy geranium thrives in shady areas, featuring deep maroon to almost black blooms that appear in late spring to early summer on slender stems above medium green leaves. The foliage is adorned with distinctive maroon blotches, creating a lush backdrop for the striking flowers. 'Samobor' forms a dense, mounding clump, making it an excellent choice for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and ground cover, and pairs beautifully with other shade-loving plants like hostas and ferns, adding texture and sophistication to garden displays.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
