Cranesbill Geranium × johnsonii 'Johnson's Blue'
ABOUT
'Johnson's Blue' is a cultivar of the hardy geranium with a lush, mounding habit and deeply lobed, mid-green leaves that provide a handsome backdrop to its flowers. Throughout its blooming period, the plant is generously adorned with vibrant, saucer-shaped flowers of a striking blue hue, which is quite eye-catching. The petals of the flowers have a delicate, veined pattern that can be appreciated up close, giving a refined texture to the floral display. The numerous blooms are well distributed over the plant, creating a full and rich appearance. Oftentimes, the centers of the flowers are accented with lighter or white tones that gracefully fade into the intense blue, often with small, darker veins radiating from the center, which adds depth and contrast to the flower.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Johnson's Blue Cranesbill, Johnson's Blue Geranium.
Common names
Geranium × magnificum 'Johnson's Blue', Geranium pratense 'Johnson's Blue'.
ToxicityTo humans
Cranesbill, commonly referred to in this variety as 'Johnson's Blue', is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any non-food plants, it is not advisable to eat them, and sensitivity or allergic reactions may occur in some individuals.
To pets
Cranesbill 'Johnson's Blue' is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It does not typically cause poisoning if ingested by animals such as dogs and cats. If a pet consumes large amounts of the plant, it may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, but severe toxicity is unusual. Owners should monitor their pets for any signs of distress and consult a veterinarian if any unusual symptoms are observed after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects.
- Low Maintenance: It is known for being easy to care for, not requiring much beyond the usual needs of water, sunlight, and occasional fertilization.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is relatively drought resistant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates.
- Ground Cover: The plant can act as an effective ground cover, spreading easily to cover bare spots in the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its vibrant blue-violet flowers, it adds a splash of color to gardens, borders, and pots.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides visual interest throughout the spring and summer months.
- Companion Planting: Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' can be planted alongside other perennials to create varied textures and colors in the garden.
- Wildlife Friendly: The plant can help support local ecosystems by providing habitat for insects and other wildlife.
- Edging Plants: Compact and well-behaved growth habit makes it ideal for edging paths and walkways.
- Tolerates Rabbit and Deer: It is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, making it suitable for gardens where these animals are a common nuisance.
- Soil Versatility: It adapts to a wide range of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, creating shades of blue and purple depending on the mordant used.
- These petals can also be used in potpourri mixtures, contributing a mild fragrance and attractive blue color to the mix.
- The plant can be positioned in gardens to attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies for pollination of nearby plants.
- Dried Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' leaves are sometimes incorporated into herbal sachets that repel moths from wardrobes and drawers.
- Landscapers may use the plant as ground cover to prevent soil erosion on slopes due to its spreading habit.
- The flowers can be used in the culinary arts as an edible decoration for desserts and salads, providing a splash of color.
- Educational institutes might use the plant in horticulture programs to teach plant propagation techniques, as geraniums are relatively easy to propagate.
- Photographers could employ the vibrant blooms of Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' as a natural backdrop for portrait and macro photography.
- Event planners might utilize the plant's blooms in eco-friendly confetti for weddings or other celebrations as they are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment.
- Gardeners might cultivate Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to mask the scent of vegetables and deter certain pests.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Friendship: Geraniums, in general, are often associated with positive emotions and relationships. 'Johnson's Blue' may be given to signify a deep and enduring friendship with someone.
- Stupidity or Folly: Historically, geraniums were sometimes connected with folly or foolishness, although this symbolism is less common today.
- Good Health: They can signify wellness and good health, making them a positive addition to a living space or a get-well-soon gift.
- Unexpected Meeting: In the language of flowers, a geranium might represent an unexpected encounter, which can be interpreted through the spontaneous growth patterns of these hardy plants.
WaterCranesbill geraniums like 'Johnson's Blue' should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. During hot or dry periods, it may be necessary to increase watering frequency to maintain consistent soil moisture. Provide approximately one inch of water each time, which translates to about half a gallon per square foot. In cooler or wetter conditions, reduce watering to prevent over-saturation, as cranesbill geraniums do not like to sit in waterlogged soil.
Light'Johnson's Blue' cranesbill geranium thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would offer morning sunlight and some afternoon shade to protect from intense heat, especially in hotter climates. Adequate light is essential for the plant to produce its vibrant blue flowers, but in regions with very hot summers, some relief from the afternoon sun will help prevent stress to the plant.
TemperatureCranesbill geranium 'Johnson's Blue' can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 85°F, but it thrives in moderate temperatures typically found in spring and fall. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 70°F. It is important to protect the plant from frost and extreme heat, as prolonged exposure to temperatures outside its tolerance range can be detrimental.
PruningPrune 'Johnson's Blue' cranesbill geranium in late winter or early spring to remove dead leaves and spent flower stems and to encourage bushier growth. Deadheading, or removing faded flowers, can be done regularly during the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. After the first flush of blooms, cutting the plant back by half can result in a second round of blooms later in the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCranesbill, commonly known as Geranium 'Johnson's Blue', thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.3. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand in equal parts creates an ideal growing medium. Regular amendment with organic matter helps maintain soil fertility.
RepottingCranesbill, or Geranium 'Johnson's Blue', should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container. Spring is the best time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in the growing season.
Humidity & MistingCranesbill, also known as Geranium 'Johnson's Blue', prefers average to slightly high humidity levels. It is adaptable to typical household humidity but will appreciate a slight increase if the air is very dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Cranesbill in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant Cranesbill in partial shade and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium 'Johnson's Blue', commonly known as cranesbill, begins its life as a seed, which upon germinating grows into a small seedling with characteristic lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a robust root system and foliage, entering its vegetative state where it grows larger and stronger. During its blooming period, typically in late spring to early summer, it produces striking blue flowers that are its most distinguishing feature and attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers give way to seed pods that resemble a crane's bill, where it gets its common name, and these pods eventually release seeds when ripe, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a phase of senescence toward the late summer or fall, where growth slows and above-ground parts may die back, especially in cooler climates, although the root system remains alive. With the arrival of the next growing season, the cranesbill emerges again from its dormant roots, repeating the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium 'Johnson's Blue', commonly known as cranesbill, is most popularly propagated through division, which is best done in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground with a spade, ensuring a good amount of root and plant mass. The clump should then be gently pulled apart into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy portion of roots. These divisions can be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, watered thoroughly, and spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. It is important that the divisions are not planted too deeply; the crown of the plant should be at soil level. This method not only propagates new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
