Bigroot Geranium
Geranium macrorrhizum
Geraniaceae · perennial · introduced
Last updated
Bigroot cranesbill (Geranium macrorrhizum, Geraniaceae) is a perennial from the southeast Alps and Balkans, reaching about 1 foot tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. Purple-pink flowers bloom from May through July above aromatic foliage. The species spreads by thick surface rhizomes.
Bigroot cranesbill grows in sun to part shade with low to moderate water needs, hardy in Zones 4 to 8. It is resistant to rabbit and deer browse and tolerates drought, erosion, and dry soil. It attracts butterflies. Cultivars include 'Ingwersen's Variety' and 'Bevan's Variety.'
Quick Facts
Height
1 ft
Spread
1-2 ft
Light
Sun to Part Shade
Water
Low to moderate
Hardiness
Zones 4–8
Bloom Time
may to july
Fall Color
Red, orange
Origin
Southeast Alps and Balkans
Cultivars (2)
'Ingwersen'
'Bevans'
Data Maturity Baseline Extension data. Expert review underway.