Dusky Cranesbill Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum', commonly known as the variegated dusky cranesbill, is a striking herbaceous perennial that is widely appreciated for its ornamental features. The plant boasts a distinctive foliage pattern with leaves that exhibit a unique variegation. The leaves are typically heart-shaped with a bold creamy-white to pale yellow edge, which contrasts beautifully against the dark green center. The texture of the leaves is also notable, with a slightly wrinkled surface giving them depth and character. As for its flowers, the variegated dusky cranesbill produces small, nodding blooms that range in color from dark purple to maroon, almost appearing black in some light. The petals are slightly reflexed, and the flowering stems rise elegantly above the variegated foliage, creating a lovely effect. These flowers are also known for their long blooming period, offering visual interest throughout the season. The overall growth habit of the variegated dusky cranesbill is clump-forming, with the foliage creating a lush, mounded tapestry that can add texture and color contrast to garden borders and beds. Its attractive foliage and the charming flowers make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to create a varied landscape with plants that offer more than just seasonal blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Dusky Cranesbill, Mourning Widow, Variegated Hardy Geranium
Common names
Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum'
ToxicityTo humans
Dusky Cranesbill is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant is not known to cause serious harm or symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any non-food plant, some individuals may have allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort after ingestion.
To pets
Dusky Cranesbill is also considered non-toxic to pets. It is unlikely that ingestion of this plant would lead to symptoms of poisoning in animals. Nonetheless, it is always prudent to monitor pets and prevent them from eating large quantities of any non-food plants, as they could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Dark purple
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum' is known for attracting bees and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, helping to promote plant health and biodiversity.
- Landscape ornamentation: With its attractive variegated foliage and dark purple flowers, this plant adds visual interest and aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Low maintenance: As a hardy perennial, it requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Tolerance of shade: Can thrive in shady garden spots where other plants might struggle, thus allowing gardeners to beautify less sunny areas.
- Seasonal interest: Provides spring to early summer blooms, which can be a nice contrast to other plants that flower later in the season.
- Wildlife habitat: Offers shelter and food to a variety of insects, which in turn can attract birds and other wildlife to the garden.
- Drought-resistant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for drought-prone regions or water-wise gardens.
- Soil adaptability: Able to grow in a wide range of soil types, from clay to loam, as long as the area is well-drained.
- Erosion control: The dense foliage and robust root system can help to prevent soil erosion in sloped areas of the garden.
- Easy to propagate: Can be easily divided and propagated to create more plants, making it cost-effective for garden expansion or sharing with other gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The roots of the Mourning Widow can be used to create a natural dye for coloring fabrics and textiles.
- Companion Planting: Mourning Widow may be planted alongside other shade-loving species to create a varied aesthetic in a garden setting.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers of Mourning Widow can be used as a decorative garnish for salads and desserts due to their unique appearance.
- Floral Arrangements: The distinctive flowers can add a touch of elegance and intrigue to cut floral arrangements.
- Art and Craft: The leaves and flowers can be used in nature crafts, such as pressing for bookmarks or botanical prints.
- Insect Repellant: Some gardeners believe that Mourning Widow can deter certain insects when planted in the garden due to its scent.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used in educational settings to teach about variegation in leaves and pollination mechanisms.
- Mood Enhancement: The striking appearance of Mourning Widow may have mood-enhancing properties when planted in a personal garden space.
- Photography: Its unique look makes Mourning Widow a good subject for photographers specializing in botanical themes.
- Signage: In themed gardens or parks, Mourning Widow can be used as a natural signpost due to its recognizable and distinct variegated leaves.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unexpected Meeting: Often in Victorian times, flowers would be used to send coded messages, and the Geranium phaeum, known commonly as Dusky Cranesbill, was sometimes used as a clandestine way of arranging a secret encounter.
- True Friendship: Geraniums are typically associated with true friendship, possibly due to their hardy and reliable nature.
- Happiness: The bright and vibrant presence of the Dusky Cranesbill in a garden can be symbolic of happiness and a positive disposition.
- Good Health: Historically, geraniums have been planted for their medicinal properties, and so they have come to symbolize good health and recovery.
- Peace: The serene appearance of the Dusky Cranesbill and its elegant foliage often embodies peace and tranquility in the language of flowers.
WaterThe Dusky Cranesbill, commonly known as Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum', prefers consistently moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.623 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Increase watering during extremely hot or dry periods to maintain soil moisture. During the cooler months or in particularly wet weather, reduce watering frequency to prevent overwatering and potential root rot. It's crucial to water the soil directly, avoiding wetting the leaves to minimize disease risk.
LightThe Dusky Cranesbill thrives best in partial to full shade, making it suitable for spots that receive filtered sunlight or dappled shade throughout the day. Avoid placing it in full sun, especially in warmer climates, as this can lead to leaf scorch. The optimal location would be an east-facing garden where it gets moderate morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun.
TemperatureThe Dusky Cranesbill is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but performs best in a range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be sheltered from extreme cold and harsh frosts, and during very hot weather, additional shading and watering may be necessary to keep it healthy.
PruningPrune the Dusky Cranesbill to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom, as well as to maintain plant shape and promote dense growth. Pruning should be done in late summer after the first bloom and again in late fall to tidy the plant before winter. Cutting the plant back to its base in late fall will also facilitate fresh growth in the following spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMourning Widow prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or sand works best. The ideal soil pH should range between 5.8 and 6.3 for optimal growth.
RepottingMourning Widows don't need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Check yearly, and if rootbound, repot in spring just before active growth, typically every 3-4 years.
Humidity & MistingMourning Widow thrives best in average room humidity. Ensure it is not too low; if needed, increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mourning Widow in bright, indirect light indoors, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Mourning Widow in partial shade outdoors, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleDusky Cranesbill, known botanically as Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum', starts its life as a seed that germinates in the spring when the soil warms up. The seedling emerges and grows into a young plant with variegated foliage, characterized by its creamy white-edged leaves and a mound-forming habit. As it matures through the growing season, it develops a deep root system and foliage that provides the base for the next stage. By late spring to early summer, the plant produces its distinctive dusky purple flowers, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers will develop into seed pods (referred to as beaks), which eventually ripen and burst open to disperse seeds for the next generation. The plant may die back in winter, entering a period of dormancy, but the perennial nature of the Dusky Cranesbill means it will regrow from the same root system the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Geranium phaeum 'Variegatum', commonly known as Dusky Cranesbill, is often propagated by division, which is best done in early spring or autumn. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground using a spade or fork, trying to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Once lifted, gently pull the plant apart into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a good root system. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method is effective because it helps to rejuvenate older plants while also creating new ones.
