Geranium sanguineum 'ELKE'

Cranesbill is a genus comprising of about 300 species. It is commonly used as a ground-covering perennial which can quickly form a respectable carpet. When in full bloom it offers a solid, one-colour show which in mass plantings looks stunning. Thanks to low growth it mostly finds its place under trees and shrubs, as well as in mixed borders along with other perennials.

Elke is a Belgian introduction of bloody cranesbill which originates from Europe and north Turkey. It produces about 3 cm large flowers of neon pink colour, decorated with purple pink veins and very light pink, almost white margins. They open in profusion from late May until early July, and then sporadically throughout summer until autumn. Leaves are cute, finely lobed, partially glossy, medium green in summer and various shades of red in autumn. The tuft can be trimmed as low as 5 cm above ground level after the main flowering in order to encourage re-growth of fresh, healthy leaves. Flowers will re-appear in late summer then.

Bloody cranesbill is possibly one of the most common cranesbill species, popular for its durability - it can take spells of both drought and water-logging once established, heat and deep frost. Yet for best results use reasonably draining, humus-rich, equally moist soil. It will grow in full sun as well as partial shade, it is an ideal understory of tall trees providing only filtered sunlight. It is hardy to min. -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 08-01-2018