Three generous geraniums chosen by plant hunter Lark Hanham
Considered one of the most popular perennials to grow by the RHS, and coveted the RHS Plant of the Centenary, this diverse and generous species has it all. They’re easy to grow, unaffected by pests and diseases, unfussy on soil types and, once established, can tolerate extended bouts of neglect and drought with minimal consequence. Aside from their robust unfaltering nature, they also supply some of the most handsome and long-lived floral shows, which perhaps is why they are particularly sought after for low-maintenance planting schemes. This attractive selection has been shortlisted to showcase interesting and aptly timed floral displays minus the faff. Furthermore, chop them to the ground after their first flush and they will return with a vengeance for another cracking show.
‘Ann Thomson’ AGM
Think Geranium Anne Folkard with more manners. The award-winning Ann Thomson displaysthe same long-live bicoloured blossoms with a much neater habit. Don’t worry, just because her habit has been refined, her vigour and floriferous nature are equally impressive. Blooming profusely from June to October, her magenta-pink and black-eyed blossoms zing against her noteworthy lime-green foliage. Height 60cm and spread 1m.
pratense ‘Mrs Kendall Clark’ AGM
Ideal for meadow-style gardens, this hybrid is a direct descendant of our native meadow cranesbill. Mrs Kendall Clark’s upright habit will also hold its own for the mid-back of the border. Its attractively dissected leaves and intricately veined whites and baby blues are stunning when shoehorned into pink, purple and blue planting schemes. Its reliable award-winning habit rewards gardeners with some of the most detailed blossoms of the genus through May and July. Height 90cm and spread 60cm.
Himalayense 'Derrick Cook'
This gorgeous Himalayan specimen forms compact and very hardy rounded mounds of bright green leaves which colour marvellously in autumn. Its flowers dress its deeply divided canopy in large white saucer-shaped blooms through June and July. Up close, one can appreciate distinct purple veins that explode from the centre of each flower. Its dense low-growing stature makes it particularly good for repeating through perennial borders. Height and spread 30cm.
How to buy
Buy Lark's generous geraniums
Offer closing date July 2, 2018.