Geranium pratense 'Dark Reiter'
Striking dark reddish-brown coloured foliage and more compact growth sets this form apart. Blue flowers appear above the dark foliage creating strong contrast. Make sure to deadhead after flowering since resultant seedlings will only partly come true to name.
The dark foliage provides season-long interest beyond the flowering period. More compact than typical meadow cranesbill. The purple-brown leaves distinguish it from all green-leaved forms. The foliage colour is the primary ornamental feature. Suitable for foliage contrast in borders.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun to part shade
Moisture: average
Soil: average garden soil
Hardiness zone: 4
Maintenance: low to moderate
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 60
Spread (cm): 50
Habit: compact clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: May–June
Seasonal interest: early summer bloom; dark foliage season-long
Foliage: dark reddish brown
Flower: blue
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: yes
Habitat: borders for foliage; contrast plantings
Features: dark reddish-brown foliage; blue flowers; compact; striking contrast; foliage plant
Notes: dark foliage main feature; deadhead to prevent seeding; seedlings don't come true; more compact