Geranium himalayense (Lilac Cranesbill)

Forming dense, spreading mounds of neatly cut leaves, Geranium himalayense, commonly known as Lilac Cranesbill, produces dainty, yet very large, cup-shaped flowers, elegantly borne on long stems, in shades of violet, indigo, and blue from early to mid-summer. Compact, its foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season and makes it useful as a low ground cover. Turning showy reddish-orange in fall, it creates a pretty contrast.

• Clump-forming and vigorous, this deciduous perennial reaches 9-18 in. in height (22-45 cm) and spreads 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm). This sturdy performer is not only easy to grow, but it also requires very little maintenance!
• Performs best in full sun or part shade, in average, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade. Don’t let the soil dry out! Native to the Himalayas, this Geranium likes cool locations.
• A perfect border plant, it is a spectacular addition to beds, borders, cottage gardens, or underplanting roses and shrubs.
• Main cultivars are:
  Geranium ‘Birch Double’ or ‘Plenum’: 16 in. tall plants (40 cm) with double, blue-tinted violet blooms with attractive dark veining.
  Geranium ‘Gravetye‘: 20 in. tall plants (50 cm) with large violet-blue blooms with red-ringed white centers. AGM award of RHS
  Geranium ‘Irish Blue’: 18 in. tall plants (45 cm) with pale blue blooms with violet central markings.