Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’: A Fragrant and Showy Ground Cover
Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’, commonly known as ‘Bevan’s Variety’, Cranesbill ‘Bevan’s Variety’, or Hardy Geranium ‘Bevan’s Variety’, belongs to the Geraniaceae family. This herbaceous perennial is native to regions in Europe, including the Balkans and the Carpathian Mountains. Its common names also include Bigroot Geranium, reflecting the plant’s robust root system.
Characteristics of Leaves and Flowers:
‘Bevan’s Variety’ is a semi-evergreen perennial that forms a dense mat of fragrant, light green foliage. The rounded leaves are deeply lobed and grayish-green, reaching 4-8 inches in length. When crushed, the leaves emit a delightful aroma. In the fall, the foliage takes on attractive purple tints, adding to the plant’s appeal.
During late spring to early summer, this geranium produces a profusion of showy crimson-purple flowers. These beautiful blooms, measuring about 1 inch in diameter, are adorned with dark red sepals, creating an eye-catching contrast. The aromatic flowers appear in terminal clusters above the foliage, attracting butterflies to your garden.
Cultivation of Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’:
Sunlight: Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’ thrives in full sun to part shade. It can tolerate full sun in cooler summer areas but appreciates some afternoon shade in warmer regions.
Watering: This hardy geranium prefers dry to medium moisture levels in well-drained soil. Once established, it exhibits good drought tolerance, thanks to its thick rhizomes.
Soil: Provide average, well-draining soil to ensure the best growth. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers soils with good drainage.
Pest and Disease: Fortunately, ‘Bevan’s Variety’ is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally attract mealybugs and scale insects. If you notice any pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil for treatment.
Propagation: Propagating this geranium can be done through division or basal cuttings. For division, separate the plant’s rhizomes during spring. Alternatively, root basal cuttings with bottom heat during early to mid-spring.
Growing and Care Tips:
- Maintenance: Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’ requires minimal maintenance. After flowering, remove flowered stems and old leaves to encourage the growth of fresh foliage and blooms.
- Spreading Habit: This geranium has a refined spreading habit, allowing it to fill out your garden gracefully without becoming invasive.
- Versatility: ‘Bevan’s Variety’ is a versatile plant that adapts well to various conditions. It is heat and humidity tolerant, making it an excellent choice for gardens in warm climates.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: This geranium is known for its resistance to deer and rabbit browsing, ensuring that your garden stays protected.
- Attractive Ground Cover: Due to its mat-forming growth habit, ‘Bevan’s Variety’ is ideal as a ground cover, providing an eye-catching carpet of foliage and flowers.
Discover the Beauty of Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’ – A Fragrant and Showy Ground Cover for Your Garden
Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Bevan’s Variety’ is a delightful and fragrant perennial that adds charm and color to any garden. With its aromatic leaves, showy flowers, and versatility, it makes an excellent choice for borders, cottage gardens, underplanting trees or shrubs, and as a ground cover. Its low-maintenance nature and resistance to pests and diseases make it an attractive option for both experienced and novice gardeners. Enhance your garden’s beauty and attract butterflies with this beautiful and easy-to-care-for ‘Bevan’s Variety’ Cranesbill.
