Geranium sanguineum var. striatum

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.

Striatum is a bloody cranesbill variety of UK origin. It is cultivated for its large, 3-4 cm across, pale pink flowers with conspicuous pink veins. Their colour fades as the flowers mature. They are produced in profusion from late May until early July above cute, deeply-lobed, partially glossy, deep green foliage that turns various shades of red in autumn, hence its name bloody cranesbill. 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 20-12-2019