Species cranesbill
Lavander-pink flower, pink stigma, green leaves, stems and light-green bud

cranesbill

Geranium 'Dilys'

Cranesbill (Geranium 'Dilys') is a stunning and hardy plant with dark green foliage and abundant violet-blue flowers throughout summer and early fall. This plant is incredibly easy to care for, and can even thrive in poor soils. Cranesbill grows quickly and enjoys full sun or part shade, making it ideal for both experienced and novice gardeners. With a buffed and rugged look that gives modern gardens a cottage-style charm, Cranesbill can be used in a rock garden, meadow, perennial border or container. The starry blooms attract pollinators and the foliage looks great when planted in mass. Cranesbill is an amazing addition to any garden!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Soft purple with dark purple veins Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Cranesbill (Geranium 'Dilys') should be watered once a week, though it may need more during the summer months. For young plants, water them moderately, ensuring they remain moist but never overly wet. Once the plants are mature, they should be watered more deeply and less often. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out before each watering. During winter months, water slightly less if temperatures drop below freezing. Mulch the plant to help retain moisture in between waterings.

sunlight

Cranesbill (Geranium 'Dilys') plants prefer full sun for at least 6 hours a day. This species of Geranium prefers to be in a south or west facing location, particularly if you live in a climate with mild winters, as it can tolerate some frost. When these Geraniums are planted in sunnier locations, they will produce more flowers and a more vigorous growth. In climates with hot summers, some afternoon shade is beneficial. During extreme heat, it is best to provide some afternoon shade in order to protect the plant from sunburn and stress.

pruning

Cranesbill (Geranium 'Dilys') should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be limited to remove any dead or damaged stems, and also to control the size or shape of the shrub. Lightly prune any unruly stems to the desired shape. Remove any excess flowering stems to promote new growth and additional flowering. If also desired, prune to reduce the size of the shrub. Remove the oldest, thickest stems at their base. This will encourage new growth and flowering from the remaining stems.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Geranium 'Dilys' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Geranium 'Dilys' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map