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~ All About Bigroot geranium ~
Geranium macrorrhizum, commonly known as Bigroot geranium, is a hardy perennial valued for its vibrant foliage and delicate flowers. Often used as a ground cover, it creates a lush carpet in gardens, suppressing weeds while providing year-round interest. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for beginner gardeners seeking both beauty and practicality.
When choosing Geranium macrorrhizum varieties, consider leaf color, flower shade, and growth habit. Popular selections include ‘Ingwersen’s variety’ with bright pink blooms, ‘Bevan’s variety’ featuring soft lilac flowers, and ‘Spessart’ known for its aromatic foliage. Each variety offers unique charm while maintaining the plant’s robust and spreading nature.
Geranium macrorrhizum thrives in partial shade to full sun and tolerates a variety of soil types, as long as drainage is good. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care. Light watering during prolonged dry periods helps maintain vibrant foliage, and occasional pruning after flowering encourages a neat appearance. Its resilience against pests and diseases further enhances its appeal as a reliable ground cover.
This versatile plant also benefits pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies with its fragrant blooms. Its evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves provide structure and texture to garden beds, making it suitable for borders, slopes, or under trees. Additionally, Geranium macrorrhizum varieties with aromatic foliage add subtle fragrance when brushed or crushed.
As a taller companion plant, Hydrangea integrifolia also thrives in shaded or woodland-style gardens. The climbing habit and large, leathery leaves of Hydrangea integrifolia provide vertical interest, while Geranium macrorrhizum fills in the ground layer below, helping retain moisture around the hydrangea’s roots.
It also complements Hydrangea macrophylla. The bold, rounded blooms and broad foliage of bigleaf hydrangea contrast elegantly with the finer texture of geranium leaves. Both plants prefer similar conditions: moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them easy to grow together. Geranium acts as a living mulch, reducing weeds and maintaining consistent soil moisture for hydrangeas.
Together, these combinations create layered plantings with varied texture, seasonal color, and minimal maintenance, offering gardeners a balanced and visually appealing landscape solution.
This plant grows well in soil that drains easily but still holds some moisture. It can handle poor or rocky soil, but it performs best in a loose, loamy mix with plenty of organic matter. Avoid heavy clay that stays wet for long periods.
Geranium macrorrhizum usually blooms in late spring. The flowers stay on the plant for two to four weeks, depending on temperature and weather. Cooler conditions help the blooms last a bit longer.
It is mostly evergreen in mild climates, keeping much of its foliage through winter. In colder areas, the leaves may fade or die back, but the plant returns strongly in spring with fresh growth.
You don’t need to prune it often, but removing spent flowers keeps the plant tidy. If the foliage looks worn after blooming, you can lightly trim the tops to promote fresh leaves. The plant will regrow quickly and stay fuller through the season.
Last updated on May 31, 2026
Species suggested by: Elisabeth Bothwell, 2022
Plant Profile compiled and written by: Team PlantShare
Contributors: Team PlantShare
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