Geranium Maderensis

Common Name:
Madeira Cranesbill

Description:
Geranium maderense, commonly known as Madeira Cranesbill, is a spectacular biennial or short-lived perennial originating from the island of Madeira. It is renowned for its dramatic foliage and large, dome-shaped flower heads that can turn any garden space into a showpiece. This architectural plant forms a rosette of deeply lobed, fern-like green leaves with a red tinge to the stems and veins. In its second year, it sends up a thick, trunk-like stalk topped with a profusion of vivid magenta-pink flowers that are held in large, spherical clusters. Flowering in late spring to early summer, it is a magnet for bees and other pollinators. Geranium maderense prefers a sheltered spot with morning sun or dappled light and rich, moist but well-drained soil. In Melbourne, it benefits from protection from heavy frost and strong winds. Once it finishes flowering, the plant will usually die off but readily self-seeds in suitable conditions, allowing it to naturalise in gardens with a soft, cottage or Mediterranean feel.

Form:
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 1–1.5 m
Width: 1–1.5 m

Aspect:
Part Shade
Full Sun (if protected from hot afternoon exposure)

Flowering:
Flowers in Late Spring
Flowers in Early Summer

Flower Colour:
Magenta-pink
Deep pink with purple veins

Key Attributes:
Bee Attracting
Herbaceous
Perennial (short-lived)
Biennial
Architectural plant
Self-seeds readily
Frost sensitive – provide protection in cold areas

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans
Non-toxic to pets

Companion Plants:
Salvia nemorosa
Euphorbia characias
Digitalis (Foxglove)
Aquilegia (Granny’s Bonnet)
Papaver (Poppy)
Ornamental grasses