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Why we like this plant
Geranium phaeum 'Album' is perfect for shady borders, woodland gardens, and underplanting shrubs or trees. Its ability to tolerate dry shade makes it invaluable for difficult planting areas, while its graceful white flowers add a touch of lightness and contrast.
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About this plant
Geranium phaeum 'Album' is a beautiful and refined form of the Dusky Cranesbill, featuring delicate, nodding white flowers with a subtle green tinge at the base. Blooming from late spring to early summer, it provides a soft, luminous contrast in shaded borders and woodland gardens. The deeply lobed, mid-green foliage is semi-evergreen and often marked with subtle marbling, adding year-round interest. Exceptionally hardy and adaptable, this geranium flourishes in dappled shade and is tolerant of dry soil, making it an excellent choice for challenging garden spots.
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Key features
- Elegant, nodding pure white flowers
- Thrives in shade, including dry conditions
- Attractive semi-evergreen, deeply lobed foliage
- Long-lived and low-maintenance
- Excellent for pollinators, attracting bees
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Height and
spread -
Growth
habitUpright, clump-forming
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Moisture
Moderate moisture; drought tolerant once established
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Position in
the GardenShade gardens, woodland borders, underplanting shrubs, wildlife-friendly areas
Planting guide
- Plant in moist, well-drained soil, though it tolerates dry shade
- Space plants around 30-40cm apart to allow for spreading
- Best planted in autumn or spring for strong establishment
Care tips
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh foliage
- Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour
- Water during prolonged dry spells, but generally drought tolerant
- Minimal feeding required – mulch with compost in spring
- Deadheading can extend the flowering period
Winter care
- Fully hardy; requires little winter protection
- Foliage may persist in mild winters, providing year-round interest
- Cut back dead foliage in late winter or early spring