Geranium hybrid 'Dragon Heart'

Key Features: Essentially a dwarf version of a psilostemon. Magenta flowers with a black centre, held over dark green foliage.

Height x Spread: 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm)

Preferred Aspect: Sun

Flowering Period: June - August

Geranium psilostemon and its hybrids are some of the tallest of all the Geraniums. The species, psilostemon itself, can achieve some four feet in height. They usually all have one very distinguishing feature, that being bright magenta flowers with a black centre. The flowers vary in size and ‘redness’ between varieties, but all are very similar. They can make excellent mid to back of border plants, especially in hot, sunny borders. The psilostemons are no good in shady, damp borders, they originate from Turkey and southwest Caucusus. If your soil stays wet or does not drain well in winter, you should consider lifting the roots of G. psilostemon and storing them in dry compost, replanting again in spring, as there is a possibility of them rotting in cold, wet borders over winter. They can really add some eye-catching zing to a summer border though, especially when coupled with plants of a complimentary colour.

Hardy Geraniums are one of the most diverse genera of herbaceous perennials. It is possible to find a Geranium to suit most parts of your garden, from the vast range of species and varieties available. They complement most other plants beautifully and, chosen wisely, can provide a continuation of colour in the garden from spring through to early winter.

Please note that the heights, spreads and flowering periods mentioned are approximate, as they can be affected by your soil type, light levels and other various conditions that may surround the plant.