Geraniums & Lobelia
When we hear about Geraniums and Lobelia, most of us think of the annuals used to such advantage in container and window box gardening but these two plants also have perennial versions that are just as stunning and useful in the border.
The Hardy Geranium or Cranesbill should not be confused with the half hardy Pelargonium which is popularly known as geranium. The geranium described here is a hardy perennial unmatched for use as a ground cover, border plant or in the rockery. Geraniums have few rivals if you are looking for a plant that is easy to grow and is drought tolerant. They are also known for their long blooming time. Ranging in colors from white to pink, purple and blue, there are so many beautiful varieties that it is hard making a choice. Some of the varieties that you will find in our perennial collection this summer are:
GERANIUM platypetalum - A bit taller at 18” with violet blue flowers and a very neat growing habit.
GERANIUM phaeum ‘Samobor’ or Mourning ‘Widow’s Cranesbill’ - Is the only hardy geranium that does very well in shade to part shade. The beautiful foliage is deep green with chocolate colored blotches. The flower color is maroon.
GERANIUM ‘Sugar Plum Silver’ - This spring and summer blooming plant has a stunning purple-magenta color against medium green foliage. An excellent ground cover, this plant needs well drained soil.
Another plant that is recognized more often in its annual form is Lobelia. The small flowered annual is wonderful in container plantings and brings shades of blue unsurpassed by other annual bloomers. The perennial versions are tall, stately plants in beautiful deep red and purple shades that attract hummingbirds to the garden. These upright plants reach a height of 2 – 5 ft in humus-rich soil that is constantly moist. They will do well in sun to part shade. Some of the varieties that are available at Gale’s this summer are:
LOBELIA ‘Cranberry Crown’ - A fabulous cranberry color to add to the garden. Grows to two feet and is excellent for cutting.
LOBELIA ‘Dark Crusader’ - Blooms from July through October. Offers red flowers with purple stems.
LOBELIA ‘Royal Fuchsia’ - These lovely magenta flowers really stand out in the garden One of the”shorter” lobelias at twenty inches It is very attractive to hummingbirds.
LOBELIA ‘La Fresco’ - Fragrant deep purple flowers cover this lobelia. At twenty six inches, one of the taller in this family. Lobelia is also deer resistant. Plant in sun or part shade in well drained soil.