loading

Geranium phaeum var. phaeum 'Samobor'

dusky cranesbill

Product Image
A useful geranium that will thrive even in damp or dry shade. This has small, deep purple-black flowers in late spring to early summer, held high above the soft green, deeply lobed leaves, which have distinctive purple blotches around the centre. It will quickly spread to form a hummock of foliage that is excellent for suppressing weeds. Use it in woodland, among ferns, at the edge of a border, where the dark flowers can be seen, or under deciduous trees. One of this plant's common names, 'mourning widow', is inspired by the intense dark colour of the flowers.

How to care for Geranium phaeum var. phaeum Samobor:

Geranium phaeum, and its cultivars, prefer reliably moist to damp soils with some shade. When planting, incorporate a scoop of well-rotted compost into the planting hole and water in well. Once established, in midsummer rejuvenate plants that are beginning to look jaded, by removing old flowered stems and leaves. After a couple of seasons, lift and divide large clumps in spring to maintain plant health and vigour.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.8m
Eventual spread:
0.45m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

Product options

Add to basket
Product options image
RH30000202
9cm pot
£10.99
In stock
(shipped within 1-2 working days)
Remove Add
Product options image
RH30000682
3 × 9cm pots
was £32.97 now £24.00
In stock
(shipped within 1-2 working days)
Remove Add
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard delivery Standard Delivery£5.95
Nominated delivery Named Day Delivery£10.95

Goes well with

Become an RHS Member today and save 25% on your first year