Variegated bigroot geranium Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum,' commonly known as Variegated Bigroot Geranium, is a distinctive perennial known for its ornamental foliage and flowers. The leaves of this cultivar are broadly rounded, with a unique variegated pattern that typically includes shades of green intermingled with creamy white or pale yellow margins or zones. This variegation lends a bright and lively contrast to garden settings. Throughout the blooming season, which spans from late spring to early summer, the plant produces clusters of small, vibrant flowers that stand out against the foliage. Often these flowers are a soft pink to magenta color, and they boast five petals with tiny veins running through them, which can be more pronounced and add to the overall floral display. The leaves have a notable fragrance, which can be described as aromatic and somewhat minty, and they release this scent when touched or brushed against. This characteristic is particularly noticeable during warm days, a property that can also help to deter certain garden pests. After flowering, small, beak-like seed heads may form, which can provide additional visual interest even after the main blooming period. The overall appearance of the Variegated Bigroot Geranium, with its combination of attractive leaves and flowers, creates a tapestry of color and texture that can brighten up shady areas in gardens, and its presence often adds a charming cottage garden feel to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Bigroot Geranium, Variegated Cranesbill, Variegated Balkan Cranesbill, Variegated Rock Cranesbill.
Common names
Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum'
ToxicityTo humans
Bigroot geranium is not considered toxic to humans. There are no common symptoms associated with poisoning because it is generally recognized as a non-toxic plant. Ingesting parts of the bigroot geranium is unlikely to result in any poisoning or serious consequences for humans.
To pets
Bigroot geranium is also not considered toxic to pets. It is generally safe, and there are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant. Therefore, ingestion of parts of the bigroot geranium by pets is not expected to lead to any toxicity or harmful consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Balkans
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: This geranium variety is known for its ease of care and minimal maintenance requirements.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is very tolerant of dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping or areas with water restrictions.
- Ground Cover: It effectively covers ground, suppressing weeds due to its dense growth habit.
- Erosion Control: Its sturdy root system helps to prevent soil erosion on slopes or in areas prone to erosion.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects, which are beneficial for gardens.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The variegated foliage and attractive pink to purplish flowers provide visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Fragrance: Its foliage is aromatic, which can add a pleasant scent to the garden and deter certain pests.
- Tolerates Various Soil Types: It can be grown in a range of soil conditions from sandy to clay, provided the soil is well-draining.
- Rapid Growth: Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' has a fast growth rate, which can quickly fill in garden spaces.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, reducing the need for protective measures.
- Long Blooming Period: It typically enjoys a long flowering period from late spring into summer.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors that can range from greens to browns depending on the mordant used.
- This plant may be used as a ground cover in landscaping to suppress weeds due to its dense growth habit.
- The leaves of the Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' can be scattered in areas where pests are unwanted as a mild insect repellent.
- The plant can be utilized in companion planting to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
- It can be used in potpourri or herb pillows because of its aromatic leaves which retain their scent when dried.
- The variegated foliage of Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' adds aesthetic value to floral arrangements as a filler or greenery.
- This geranium can be planted on slopes or banks to prevent soil erosion with its thick and sturdy root system.
- The plant's ability to tolerate foot traffic makes it a practical choice for planting between stepping stones or pathways.
- Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum' can serve as a living mulch, conserving soil moisture and maintaining cooler root zone temperatures in summer.
- Leaves from the plant may be used to create a natural, albeit mild, antiseptic solution for cleaning minor cuts or abrasions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Geranium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Geranium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Health: Geraniums often symbolize a wish for good health due to their medicinal properties.
- Friendship: These plants are sometimes given as gifts to represent friendship or to offer comfort.
- Fertility: In some cultures, the geranium represents fertility and the creation of new life.
- Harmony: The balanced growth pattern of geraniums suggests a symbol of harmony and equilibrium in life.
- Protection: The strong scent of Geranium macrorrhizum is believed to ward off evil spirits, making it a symbol of protection.
WaterThe Bigroot Geranium prefers even moisture, so it's crucial to water it thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this can mean watering once a week, but the frequency can vary depending on climate conditions such as heat and humidity. It's essential not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Apply water directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, using about 1 gallon of water per plant each time you water to ensure the root zone is well-hydrated. During the winter or in cooler weather, reduce the watering amount as the plant's growth slows down.
LightBigroot Geraniums perform best in partial shade to full sun. They thrive with morning sunlight and protection from the intense afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves. An ideal spot is under the dappled shade of trees or on the east or north side of buildings where they receive bright, indirect light for most of the day.
TemperatureThe Bigroot Geranium is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but prefers a moderate climate. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive brief periods of higher temperatures if provided with adequate shade and moisture.
PruningPruning Bigroot Geraniums is important to maintain their shape and encourage fresh growth. Prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to shape the plant. Light pruning throughout the season can help to promote bushier growth and more blooms. The best time for a more significant pruning is after the plant has flowered, to rejuvenate the foliage and prepare it for the next blooming cycle.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Bigroot Geranium prefers a well-draining soil mix with organic matter; a combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite is ideal. It thrives in a soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingBigroot Geraniums generally do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3-4 years or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingBigroot Geranium tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it quite adaptable to average home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Bigroot Geranium near a bright window; water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Sun to partial shade, in fertile, moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleGeranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum', also known as Variegated Balkan Cranesbill, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions—moist soil with partial to full sunlight. After germination, the seedling emerges and grows into a young plant, developing characteristic variegated leaves—green with creamy white margins. As the plant matures, it forms a spreading mound through rhizomatous growth, which helps it fill garden spaces effectively. During spring and summer, it blooms with pink to purple flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or animals, ensuring the proliferation of the species. In the winter, the plant may die back somewhat but, being perennial, it will regrow from its overwintering root system with the return of spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagating Geranium macrorrhizum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Variegated Bigroot Geranium, is through division. This is typically done in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant ensuring you get a large root ball. Gently separate the crown of the plant into smaller sections, each with a piece of root and several shoots attached. Replant each section at the same depth it was growing before, spacing them about 12 to 15 inches (approximately 30 to 38 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the new plantings well to help establish them. This method is favored for its simplicity and the quick establishment of new plants that will flower in the following season.
