Geranium wallichianum (21/09/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well drained soil
Flowering period: Late summer to early autumn
Eventual Height: 60m
Eventual Spread: 60m
Hardiness: 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a
Family: Geraniaceae
Geranium wallichianum is a deciduous herbaceous perennial with a clump forming habit. Its mid green leaves are broad deeply lobed, up to 8cm long and 11cm broad. Its pink/ blue flowers, borne singly, have five petals and are up to 4cm across. Its roots are rhizomes which aids its slow spread.
Geranium wallichianum Flower (21/09/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Geranium wallichianum, commonly known as Wallich Geranium, is native to north west Himalayas. In its native habitat it grows as part of a woodland understory.
The etymological root of the binomial name Geranium is derived from the Greek geranos, meaning ‘crane’; referring to the beak-like fruit. Wallichianum is named after Dr Nathaniel Wallich, (1786 – 1854) , a Danish botanist.
The landscape architect may find Geranium wallichianum useful as an effective low maintenance ground cover, consideration should be given to its deciduous nature. It may also be used as part of a mixed herbaceous planting scheme.
Ecologically, Geranium wallichianum flowers are attractive to pollinating insects.
Geranium wallichianum Leaf (21/09/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Geranium wallichianum prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil.
Geranium wallichianum requires little to no maintenance. Flowered stems and old foliage may be removed to encourage new growth. Large clumps may be divided in spring.
