Plant Overview
A popular variety, very good for ground cover in sun or partial shade.
Flowers are freely produced, bluish purple with a small pale eye. Petals are relatively narrow leaving a gap between each that gives the flower a starry appearance. The foliage, which emerges ochre tinted, is finely cut and pale apple green. Large and spreading.
Found in Cambridge University Botanic Garden in 1979.
Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit
Loved by bees
Height: 50cm
Myth and Legend
Apparently, the Prophet Mohammed, whilst resting beside a stream, decided to wash his shirt in the water. Having done so, he spread his shirt out to dry on a bed of mallows that grew close by and then lay down and slept. As he slept, a miraculous transformation occurred. First the mallows blushed with pleasure at having the opportunity to serve the great man. Then, by the time he awoke, the mallows had all been transformed into cranesbills.
Traditionally, cranesbills offer protection against snakes and serpents. Hence the following country rhyme:
Snakes will not go
Where geraniums grow.
Dreaming of geraniums is meant to be a sign that you need not worry about a recent quarrel, as it meant nothing and will soon be forgotten.
Common name(s): Endres cranesbill, French cranesbill
