Geranium phaeum is clump forming spring flowering perennial. Commonly called Mourning Widow as well as ‘Dusky Cranesbill’ and this is a geranium variety that will grow well in shade.
This is plant that comes form the forested areas in southern Europe, it comes in a number of varieties.
This is a germanium that will grow well part shade and it will form a dense clump, so it can be used as a ground cover plant and yes it will help suppress weeds.
Flowering in spring, Geranium phaem will attract masses of bees to the garden, so grow it for the flowers, the foliage, as a ground cover or to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden in spring.
Pruning Geranium phaeum
Immediately after the first flush of flowers Geranium phaeum can be pruned back hard and it will quickly re shoot to produce a second flush of flowers. If you love it unpruned, it will spot flower through summer, however for good second flush, cutting back hard is recommended.
In winter the plant can again be pruned hard, cutting it right back to ground level.
Care and Cultivation
This is a plant that works well in part shade, so a woodland setting beneath large deciduous tree mixed in with ferns and other shade loving plants is ideal.
- Plant in a humus rich well drained soil.
- Mulch deeply around the plant, this will encourage the clump to spread as well as maintain a cool moist root run.
- This is plant that tolerate dry soils for short period and is not that fussy about soil pH.
- Fertilise with a liquid seaweed/fish fertiliser after the first flush of flowers and with a slow release all purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth commences.
G.phaeum Varieties
- ‘Album’ – A white flowering variety, pure white flowers.
- ‘Lily lovell’ – An old cultivar with deep dusky purple flower
- ‘Raven’ – Mid green leaves with purple markings
- ‘Sambor’ – Flowers are more of a Maroon colour, and pronounced purple markings on the older foliage
- ‘Wendy’s blush’ – Lilac flowers with a purple throat
Geranium phaeum is available from the following nurseries
138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
"Large range of rare and unusual plants.."
www.gentiananursery.com.au
Large range of Rare, Unusual and Old Fashioned Perennials. Includes Artemisias, Achilleas, Geraniums, Geums, Salvias, Penstemon and Francoa.
www.yellowhouseheritageperennials.com.au