Geranium cantabrigiense 'Biokovo' is a hardy, low growing perennial geranium prized for its spreading habit and delicate flowers. It forms a dense mat of finely divided green foliage that turns slightly bronze in cooler months, providing year round interest. In spring and early summer, it produces small lavender blue flowers with purple veining that attract pollinators and contrast beautifully against the green foliage.
Height & Spread: 6 - 10 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference: Well drained, moderately fertile soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates short dry periods once established
Deer Resistance: Generally unbrowsed by deer due to foliage texture
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Geranium cantabrigiense, native to the Balkan region of Europe. It is not native to North America but is widely used in rock gardens, borders, and groundcover plantings for its hardiness and long season of interest.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and Small Coppers are frequent visitors to the nectar rich flowers.
Bees
- Native bumblebees and honeybees are attracted to its spring blooms, aiding in pollination.
Hummingbirds
- Occasionally visited by Ruby Throated Hummingbirds for quick nectar feeding.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow spreading groundcover formation and adequate air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for rock gardens, borders, slopes, and as a low growing groundcover in full sun or partial shade.
Companion Plants
- Alchemilla mollis (Lady's Mantle) - Soft green scalloped foliage and chartreuse blooms contrast nicely with Biokovo's blue flowers.
- Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme) - Low growing aromatic groundcover adds texture and scent near Biokovo.
- Heuchera 'Palace Purple' - Dark foliage provides color contrast and enhances visual interest in mixed plantings.
- Sedum album (White Stonecrop) - Succulent foliage adds summer drought tolerance and subtle flowers.
- Festuca glauca (Blue Fescue) - Mounded blue foliage complements the green and blue tones of Geranium Biokovo.