This European wildflower is popular with bees and other pollinators, and provides seed for birds. It grows to 90cm tall and 50cm across in moist but well-drained soils and in any position from full sun to full shade. Purple flowers are produced from April to July.
Dusky Cranesbill / Geranium phaeum
Position: Flower border / Container
Flowering months: May_/ Jun / Jul
Light: Full sun / Mix of sun and shade / Dappled shade / Full Shade
Soil: Clay / Loam / Chalk / Sand
Tested in our local soil (t.i.o.l.s.): Yes
Drainage: Well drained / Moist but well-drained (never waterlogged)
Life cycle: Perennial (lives for many years)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (in Bristol winters)
Over winter: Dies back (deciduous)
Drought tolerant: Yes, once established



